Two state agencies are collaborating to provide FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid training.

 

S.D. Department of Education and the Department of Social Services–Division of Behavioral Health, through the Project AWARE grant, are offering an eight-hour Youth Mental Health First Aid training program at no cost to adults who regularly interact with adolescents (teachers, school staff, coaches, parents).

 

Download the Youth Mental Health First Aid Training overview here.

 

The program introduces participants to the risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge and meets the suicide awareness and prevention training required by state law.

 

To request a Youth Mental Health First Aid training for your school, click here to complete the form.

 

If you have questions about the training, contact DSS Division of Behavioral Health Project Director Jana Sprenger via email at jana.sprenger@state.sd.us or by phone at 605-367-5236.