Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) runs a course to teach people how to recognize the signs and provide prompt and effective care for youth mental health. The course is free, but you must register first. Space is limited so click here to register quickly.
The Youth Mental Health First Aid course is a two-part course for anyone who has teenagers, works with teenagers, or needs skills for the future. Classes are made possible through the Southern Center for Choice Theory through a grant from Fort Valley State University Value. It is divided into two sessions and participants must attend both. They will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, September 16 and Friday, September 23. Both will take place in the rooms of City Hall (700 Poplar Street).
“Identifying signs of mental health distress in our young people increases our chances of dismantling the trauma our young people have experienced,” says MMHM Coordinator Andrea Cooke. “This training being free, removes the barrier for the community as a whole to support our young people!”
Andrea Cooke and Jarvis Adside are leading the training, and it will cover:
- Common signs and symptoms of mental health issues in this age group, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD);
- Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges;
- How to interact with a child or adolescent in crisis.;
- How to connect young people with support; and
- Expanded content on trauma, substance use, self-care, and the impact of social media and bullying.
Suggested participants include teachers, school staff, coaches, camp counsellors, youth group leaders, parents, and any adult who works with youth.
