Youth Mental Health First Aid Training to be held in Poplar Bluff

Mar 16, 2015

One in five people will have a panic attack once in their lifetime. What would you do when this happens to a student, loved one, or church member? Attend the Youth Mental Health First Aid course to recognize symptoms of mental health problems, how to help, and how to guide the youth to professional help. University of Missouri Extension and Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health are sponsoring Youth Mental Health First Aid training on Wednesday, March 25 in Poplar Bluff. The one-day training will be held at the Holy Cross Episcopal Church from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The registration fee is waived which includes lunch and a workbook. This rate is at a discount from the normal $40 fee due to funds provided by the Missouri Institute of Mental Health. Instructors, who are certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainers, include Stephanie Milner, 4-H Youth Development Specialist for University of Missouri Extension and Amber Windhorst, Care Coordinator, from Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health.

This 8-hour course teaches people how to give first aid to youth experiencing a mental health crisis situation. Participants will learn the signs and symptoms of the most common mental health problems, where and when to get help, and what type of help has been shown to be effective. The purpose of the program is to also demystify the whole topic of mental illness, to increase mental health literacy, and to decrease any stigma.

Specific audiences for the training vary, but include key professions such as youth volunteers, first responders, primary care professionals, nursing home staff, school administration and educators. Other participating entities include faith communities, employers, chambers of commerce, state policymakers, mental health advocacy organizations, shelter volunteers, families and the general public.

For more information and to register contact the University of Missouri Extension Center, 222 N Broadway, Poplar Bluff (573-686-8064). The registration form is found on our website extension.missouri.edu/butler or through email at butlerco@missouri.edu.