Youth Mental Health First Aid USA April 5, 2017 Presented by: Trillium Health Started in 2001 by a Nurse from Australia. Developed a Curriculum for several different people.

What is Youth Mental Health First Aid It is offered to young people experiencing a mental health challenge. First Aid given until appropriate help is received or until the crisis is resolved.

Why Youth Mental Health Mental Health problems are common Mental Health problems often develop during adolescence. The sooner an individual gets help the more likely they are to have a positive outcome.

Prevalence of Mental Disorders The prevalence of mental disorders in children and youth -to the point at which their life is significantly impacted- is estimated to be approximately 20% during a given year - Mental Health First Aid USA For Adults Assisting Young People 2016 Females have a high rate of depression than males. Mood swings are common in adolescence because onset of puberty, very emotional.

What is a mental disorder? Diagnosable illness that affects a person’s thinking, emotional state and behavior Disrupts the person’s ability to work or attend school or carry out daily activities Limits their ability to engage in satisfying relationships

Kevin Hines- Advocate- living with a mental illness https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcSUs9iZv-g

Signs vs Symptoms of Mental Health IIlness Pattern adjustments Appearance: change in the way they dress. Unrealistic or excessive anxiety, guilt Loss of motivation Difficulty making decisions concentrating or remembering things. Signs- What we see Symptoms- What they experience Emotions and Thoughts

Consideration when Reaching Out -Role relationship you have to youth -Ethical guidelines - Legal requirements - Professional restrictions - Role of family - Young person’s right to privacy - Your ability to help.

Youth Mental Health First Aid The Mental Health First Aid Action Plan Assess for risk of suicide or harm Listen nonjudgmentally Give reassurance and information Encourage appropriate professional help Encourage self-help and other support strategies. www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org 5 step Action Plan for First Aid

Effective Communication Be genuine Be careful about using slang Allow for silence Try different settings for communication to see what works best Do not compare that young person’s life with your own experiences from that age Do not trivialize the young person’s feelings -Mental Health First Aid USA For Adults Assisting Young People 2016 In order to help a person with mental health problems notice signs and symptoms. Get them the help they need.

Effective Communication continued Do not ask the young person to justify or explain their behavior Watch your body language Provide positive feedback-Look for and acknowledge the youth’s strengths Help them find the language they are looking for Respect the culture by using appropriate language and behavior Never do anything to cause a person shame Support person’s right to make decisions about seeking culturally based care - Mental Health First Aid USA For Adults Assisting Young People 2016