Grantsville, WV- As rates of stress, anxiety, and depression continue to rise among young people, community members are stepping up to learn how to make a difference. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training offers practical tools to help identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges — and new sessions are now available for teens and adults who work with teens.
Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) is designed for high school students in grades 9–12 (or ages 14–18). The program equips teens with skills to recognize when a friend might be struggling, and teaches them how to reach out for help from a trusted adult.
Youth Mental Health First Aid for is ideal for teachers, coaches, counselors, parents, youth group leaders, and other caring adults. Participants learn how to approach, listen, and support a young person experiencing mental health challenges or crisis — and how to connect them with appropriate professional help.
“Just like CPR helps you assist someone having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid gives people the tools to support someone experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge,” said Donna Rollyson, MHFA instructor with NW AHEC. “It’s about building a safer, more compassionate community for our youth.”
Each session is led by certified MHFA instructors and combines education, discussion, and real-world scenarios to build confidence and understanding. Participants receive a nationally recognized certification upon completion.
How to Get Involved
Organizations, schools, and community groups interested in scheduling a Teen, Youth or Adult Mental Health First Aid training can contact Donna Rollyson at donna.rollyson@nwvahec.org or call 912-398-3244 for more information.
Learn more about Mental Health First Aid at www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org.
About Northern WV AHEC
Northern WV Area Health Education Center (NW AHEC) is dedicated to improving the health of communities through education, training, and partnerships that strengthen the healthcare workforce across the region.
