ExploRIII 2014 Volume 2 | Page 45

by LCRB. “Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training is truly for everyone,” said Cuivre Park Elementary Counselor Jennifer Lescher. “Anyone who works with our county’s youth should pursue the knowledge and experiences the YMHFA training has to offer. Kristi and I are passionate about sharing this information and hope to reach beyond the educators in our district." Similar to traditional First Aid, YMHFA is designed to provide help to persons suffering from a mental health condition or experiencing a crisis until professional treatment is secured or the crisis is resolved. First aid participants explore the most common mental health issues affecting ng adolescents—including anxiety, depression, psychosis, eating disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, r, disruptive behavior disorders and substance abuse e disorders. They also learn a five-step action plan to respond to youth exhibiting symptoms of mental illness or an emotional crisis. "When youth are in crisis, they often turn to the adult with whom they have the most trust,” said New w Horizons High School Counselor Kristi Gregory. “If that person lacks the knowledge or confidence to properly respond, they can unintentionally cause more harm than good. YMHFA participants are empowered to help youth through the crisis at hand and direct them to other appropriate help if needed. It is an engaging, interactive training that is beneficial regardless of your role in a young person's life." 45 FIVE-STEP YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID ACTION PLAN: ALGEE A: Assess for risk L: Listen nonjudgmentally G: Give reassurance & info E: Encourage appropriate professional help E: Encourage self-help & other support strategies To learn more about free, local mental health programs and services visit the LCRB’s website www.lincolncountykids.org. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the 24-hour Behavioral Health Response hotline 314-469-6644 or 1-800-811-4760. NEVER SETTLE FOR LESS™ S. Lincoln Dr. • Troy, MO 636-528-6260 MAIN OFFICE N. Lincoln Dr. • Troy, MO 636-528-6336 RON MILLS - AGENT My background and achievements: • With State Farm Insurance Since 1988 • Ambassadors for Life 15 Time Qualifier • National Convention Qualifier • President of Lincoln County R-III School Board • State Farm Missouri Hall of Fame • Troy Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year in 2005 • Troy Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors since 2001 429 Main St. • Winfield, MO 636-668-6273 LET US TAKE THE WRINKLES OUT OF DOING YOUR TAXES OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND! Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 5:00pm • 636-528-7300 850 E. Cherry St. • Suite C • Troy, MO 63379 www.ronmillsagency.com