Mental health training offered to public

DANBURY » The nationally recognized Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Training certification program will be offered on the evenings of June 6 and June 8, 5:30-9:30 p.m. at EdAdvance, 4 Mountainview Terrace, Suite 201 in Danbury. There is no charge for this program and the public is invited to participate.

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training is an evidencebased program designed to help prepare adults and teen leaders to recognize and address mental health problems among youth. The training is 8-hours long and teaches participants how to recognize the signs and symptoms of common mental illnesses and substance use disorders, de-escalate crisis situations safely and initiate timely referrals to mental health and substance abuse resources available in the community. Individuals from all educational and professional backgrounds are welcome. Coaches, teachers, youth group leaders, scout leaders, parent volunteers, faith-based communities, police officers, camp counselors, nurses, college students and medical first responders are among the thousands already trained across the country. Additionally, student leaders in grades 11-12 are eligible for certification. Participants must attend all 8 hours of training in order to receive certification. First Aiders will receive a comprehensive guidebook developed to provide easy access to mental health information. Participants may bring dinner. Beverages and light refreshments will be served.

Space is limited and registration is required.

Those interested in Youth MHFA should register by contacting Amanda DelVicario at EdAdvance at (860) 567-0863 or YMHFA@edadvance.org