About Us
Southern Alliance for Youth Mental Health
In 2023, The University of Mississippi’s School of Applied Sciences received funding from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to provide Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training across Mississippi.
Building on the success of the initial phase, the program secured additional funding in 2024 from ONDCP. This expansion extended the program's reach across the southern region, leading to the creation of the Southern Alliance for Youth Mental Health.
To date, the alliance has partnered with organizations in Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas to train adults to become YMHFA certified. This training utilizes a nationally recognized curriculum developed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, teaching participants to identify early warning signs of mental health struggles, substance use, and suicidal behaviors in youth aged 12 to 18. Through this evidence-based program, participants not only learn to recognize critical indicators of distress but also gain practical skills to respond effectively.
In addition to certifying Youth Mental Health First Aiders, we provide support to individuals who are interested in becoming YMHFA Instructors. These instructors play a vital role for the Southern Alliance to expand its efforts in reaching more communities across the region.
By delivering this training in local communities, the Southern Alliance plays a critical role in ensuring that young people receive the mental health care and support they need.
Have questions? Contact us at youthmentalhealth@olemiss.edu.
This initiative is funded by:
The Office of National Drug Control Policy.
In Partnership With
YMHFA is a nationwide initiative led by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. It aims to equip parents, educators, caregivers, and community members with the knowledge and skills needed to support adolescents facing mental health challenges. To learn more, download the Mental Health First Aid for Youth one-pager.
As part of this effort, the Southern Alliance for Youth Mental Health utilizes certified YMHFA Instructors to lead YMHFA trainings in local communities. These sessions create a network of informed, compassionate individuals ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
17.1 million — The number of youth under the age of 18 who have or have had a psychiatric disorder — more than the number of children with cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.
Source: The National Council for Mental Wellbeing
Register to Become a Youth Mental Health First Aider
You can become a Youth Mental Health First Aider by attending a 6.5-hour YMHFA training led by a certified instructor. These sessions are available both virtually and in-person.