Teenage angst or mental illness? A ploy for attention or a cry for help? Adults often have a difficult time interpreting teenage behavior, and don’t know when to intervene or to seek help. Research shows that nearly three-quarters of American children with depression don’t receive treatment. When adults are trained to recognize the signs of mental health concerns and to respond appropriately, they can connect adolescents to life-saving treatment.
The Rappahannock Area Community Services Board offers an eight-hour training to help adults who interact regularly with adolescents ages 12-18. The Youth Mental Health First Aid curriculum is appropriate for parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, clergy and coaches. The trainings are open to the public, and the next session is scheduled for Sept. 12.
Through role-playing and simulations, participants gain skills to offer assistance in a mental health crisis. Participants will learn the common mental health challenges faced by youth, typical adolescent development and five-step action plans to help. Topics will include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, disruptive behavior disorders, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
The course will be offered Sept. 12, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy (3630 Lee Hill Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408). The $15 registration fee includes a workbook, refreshments, and lunch.
To register for the training, contact Jennifer Bateman, Prevention Specialist, at 540-374-3337, ext. 100 or jbateman@rappahannockareacsb.org.