SJM Chelsea to host free “Youth Mental Health” first aid course

St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea and SRSLY Coalitions will host a free Youth Mental Health First Aid course designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers and neighbors how to help adolescents (ages 12-18) who are experiencing mental health or addiction challenges. The course, which will be held Saturday, November 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in room 100 of the Washington Street Education Building (500 Washington St. in Chelsea), is primarily designed for adults who interact with young people and was created by the National Council for Behavioral Health.

The course introduces attendees to common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development and teaches a five-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis or non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD) and eating disorders.

Registration is required to attend this event. To register, please email  lindsay.baker@stjoeshealth.org. Child care for children in kindergarten or older will be available.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.