Los Alamos Reporter

450 Adults Certified Through Los Alamos JJAB Youth Mental Health First Aid Classes: Final Class Offered Nov. 20

LOS ALAMOS JJAB NEWS

Youth Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based, nationally recognized course designed for adults who work with youth, ages 10-18.  The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and provides information on how to identify symptoms of different types of mental illness.  Additionally, the training covers a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in crisis and non-crisis situations.

Los Alamos JJAB began offering Youth Mental Health First Aid courses in 2016.  Of the 450 participants that have received certification thus far, 240 were Los Alamos Public Schools employees and 210 were local and regional community participants. 

“I have teenagers at home and an elementary-age child. The thought of having a conversation about suicide terrified me. It still scares me, but I do feel more prepared now,” expressed a community participant.

Since 2016, JJAB has provided 31 training classes locally.  The final training class of 2020 will be offered on Friday, Nov. 20.  With COVID restrictions, the course is now offered fully online and includes a self-paced, two-hour training followed by a four-hour, interactive facilitated learning session.  Registration is available at www.losalamosjjab.com/events

“I took Youth Mental Health First Aid a few years ago and I remember having to use my newly acquired skills within a few days. A student in one of my classes was in distress and I was so thankful that I learned how to reach out and show my concern,” stated a teacher that received certification. 

Funding to provide the classes is made possible by the Northern New Mexico Health Grant through a partnership between Con Alma Health Foundation and the Hospital Auxiliary for Los Alamos Medical Center.  JJAB has once again been awarded the grant to continue to provide the course to Los Alamos and surrounding communities in 2021.

Los Alamos JJAB is a non-profit 501(3)(c) focusing on the needs of youth with an emphasis on reducing youth risk behaviors, facilitating positive youth development, and building resiliency.