Montrose, COLO.—Montrose County and the Center for Mental Health are excited to bring another Mental Health First Aid course to the community. Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis.

“Mental health is extremely important in the overall wellness of our community,” said Montrose County Health Educator Danace Arthur. “Mental health issues affect individuals of all ages, and we are pleased to bring this youth-centered class to our community.”

Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders. Attendees will learn a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. The course is co-hosted by Montrose County and the Center for Mental Health. The course will be instructed by Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructors Robin Berndt and Heather Darbe.

Youth Mental Health First Aid is offered to community members free of charge and will be held at Montrose County Health & Human Resources, 1845 S. Townsend Ave from 9 am to 4:30 pm on Dec. 8. Lunch will be provided. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Danace Arthur at 970-252-5011 or darthur@montrosecounty.net.