Training opportunity for 4-H volunteers and staff
As 4-H volunteers and staff, we have likely taken multiple first-aid and CPR courses over our life. Whether from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other organizations we inherently know basic first aid might come in handy someday. Both regular first-aid and CPR teach basic lifesaving skills to recognize when something is wrong, know who to call for help, and provide immediate care until help arrives. Over the years, practitioners and researchers realized that these principles are important for mental health too. Would you be able to recognize the signs of a panic attack or a substance abuse disorder? And if you did, would you know what to do?
California 4-H staff across the state have trained to teach the Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) course which is an evidence-based course administered for the National Council on Mental Well-being. From their website: “Almost 100 peer-reviewed studies conducted in the United States have shown that those who are trained [in Mental Health First Aid]
- Show reduced stigma and increased empathy toward those with mental health challenges.
- Know the signs, symptoms and risk factors of mental health and substance use challenges.
- Show greater confidence and likelihood to help someone in distress.
- Use their skills and knowledge as First Aiders to manage their own mental wellbeing.”
In my capacity as Central Sierra's 4-H Advisor, I am offering a virtual training on Zoom August 24 and August 25 from 5:30-8:30 pm. There is pre-work required and both sessions are required. After successful completion of the requirements, participants will receive a certificate. In addition, there are two other trainings taught by others in the state, in September and October, if you can’t make the August dates.
Register for Mental Health First Aid Sessions
No cost for actively enrolled 4-H leaders to participate
Grant funding and support from the California 4-H State Office has made this training FREE (normally $125) for all actively enrolled 4-H leaders (yet another reason to get your enrollment in sooner rather than later). We hope you’re able to attend so you’re better prepared for your role in working with young people in our community.
This quote from the YMHFA website aligns perfectly with the goals of 4-H “When you support mental health early, young people can focus on learning, growing and being their best — at school and in life.”