Monmouth Council > Scouting Resources > Training > Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid

Be the Difference for Youth in Crisis.

Just like traditional CPR and First Aid prepare you to assist during a physical emergency, Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) gives adult leaders, parents, and volunteers the skills to recognize and respond when a young person is facing a mental health or substance use challenge.

Conducted through The National Council for Mental Wellbeing, this evidence-based course teaches participants how to identify early warning signs, offer immediate support, and connect adolescents (ages 10–20) with appropriate care.

Why Mental Health Matters for Youth

Poor mental health is one of the leading challenges impacting youth today. As Scout leaders and mentors, being equipped to notice when a Scout is struggling can make a life-changing difference.

1 in 5

One in five youth will experience a mental health challenge at some point during their life.

17.1 m

17.1 million youth under the age of 18 have or have had a psychiatric disorder – more than the number of children with cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.

7.4%

7.4% of children in the United States have a mental health visit in a given year.

How You Can Help

By taking Youth Mental Health First Aid, you can learn to recognize and respond to mental health challenges that our youth face. This includes learning about common mental health concerns, reducing stigma, and provides adults with skills to use a 5-step action plan to help a youth who may be facing a mental health problem or crisis. Register now for our upcoming course to become a trained “noticer”.

Upcoming Course Dates & Locations

Special Acknowledgement

This training is made possible through a federal grant written for by the Course Director, and received by the Department of Counselor Education at The College of New Jersey.