You Can Help Youth in Crisis More Than You Know
Most people instinctively call 911 or perform CPR in a physical health emergency, but often hesitate to even start conversations about mental health and substance use.
The Southern Alliance for Youth Mental Health is here to help!
We are empowering individuals to become advocates—training them to recognize the early signs of mental health struggles, offer support in both crisis and everyday situations, and connect those in need to life-changing resources.
Why Youth Mental Health First Aid?
More than 20% of youth between the ages of 12 and 17 reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year. Even more alarming, 15% faced severe impairment, meaning their ability to function at school, work, or home was deeply affected.¹
Despite these numbers, many young people struggle in silence, not always asking for the help they need. Meanwhile, adults in roles of supervision, mentorship, and teaching may miss the signs of substance use or mental health challenges—or simply don’t know how to start the conversation.
Youth Mental Health First Aiders
The Southern Alliance for Youth Mental Health offers Youth Mental Health First Aider training based on curriculum from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
The training empowers adults to recognize, understand, and respond to the signs of mental health and substance use challenges in young people—equipping them with the tools to provide critical support when it’s needed most.
Youth Mental Health First Aider training is designed for any adult who interacts with children and adolescents ages 12–18.
How You Can Make an Impact by Becoming an Instructor
We also offer support to certified Youth Mental Health First Aiders who are interested in training other adults in their community. Instructors lead First Aider trainings, equipping participants with the tools to recognize and respond to a variety of mental health challenges.
Register to Become a Youth Mental Health First Aider
You may become a Youth Mental Health First Aider by attending a Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training conducted by a certified YMHFA instructor. These classes are 6.5-hour sessions which can be virtual or in-person.