United Way of Hunterdon County offers free youth mental health training

The United Way of Hunterdon County is taking action to combat the escalating youth mental health crisis by providing free Youth Mental Health First Aid training. This event will take place on Tuesday, May 27, at 20 Fulper Road in Flemington, NJ.

This evidence-based course aims to equip adults who frequently interact with young people—such as parents, educators, coaches, and youth leaders—with the necessary skills to support adolescents facing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or substance use issues. Participants will learn to identify warning signs of mental health struggles, understand adolescent development, and apply a five-step action plan to assist youth in both crisis and non-crisis situations.

Jennifer Thompson, CEO of United Way of Hunterdon County, emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, “We are facing a national emergency when it comes to youth mental health. According to the CDC, nearly 60% of teenage girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021, showing a 60% increase over the past ten years. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 24. These statistics are devastating and demand action.”

The Surgeon General’s 2021 Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health, along with reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics, underscores the need for trained adults who can recognize signs of mental health issues and direct youth to appropriate support.

The training is open to parents, guardians, sports coaches, youth leaders, mentors, educators, afterschool program staff, and faith-based youth workers. Thompson noted, “No one expects a parent or coach to be a mental health professional, but anyone can be trained in Mental Health First Aid. This course empowers adults to recognize when a teen is struggling and respond effectively.”

Statistics from the CDC’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey reveal alarming trends: 42% of high school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness, 22% seriously considered suicide, and 10% attempted it. Additionally, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC youth experience disproportionately high rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Registration for the training is required, and space is limited. Interested participants can sign up at https://youthmentalhealthuwhc.eventbrite.com. Those who complete the course will earn a nationally recognized certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid, with no prior experience necessary.

Thompson concluded, “Just like CPR saves lives, Mental Health First Aid can too. Together, we can create a community where every young person feels seen, supported, and safe.”