The military and veteran lifestyle offers unique challenges for the entire family. Due to frequent moves, social isolation, and managing stress and anxiety, mental health issues are higher among the children of our military and veterans. VSN Marketing & Outreach Manager, Ashley Craig, will offer a basic overview of common mental health challenges for youth, review typical adolescent development, and teach a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 12-18.
What you learn in Youth MHFA:
Common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in this age group, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).
Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges.
How to interact with a child or adolescent in crisis.
How to connect the youth with help.
Expanded content on trauma, substance use, self-care, and the impact of social media and bullying.
**IMPORTANT: Learners are required to complete a 2-hour, self-paced online course and participate in Instructor-led training.
The EmpowerEd trainings/seminars are open to the wider military-affiliated community and are offered Free of charge. Encouraged participants include: the spouse or partner of an active duty service member or post-service veteran, parents to the children of a veteran or active duty service member, or an active duty service member or veteran.
Eligibility varies by session, so please check our Eventbrite page to see other social clubs that may interest you.
