The training offers flexibility through different formats, including blended virtual, blended in-person and fully in-person options. This adaptable structure makes it easier for all individuals and organizations to participate.
The training focuses on adolescents ages 12 to 18, providing adult participants with an understanding of the unique ways mental health challenges manifest in youth and how to support them effectively during a crisis.
“Our Youth Mental Health First Aid program is a community training program with the goal of increasing mental health advocates so people don’t fall through the cracks,” Leylee Morris, licensed professional counselor and program manager said. “When people start experiencing symptoms of mental health challenges or are in a crisis and don’t know where to go, we have a community that does know. They know how to identify these struggles; they know the language to use, and they know the resources to be able to assist and feel confident in assisting.”
Participants in the YMHFA training follow a structured curriculum that includes:
- Information on depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, suicide and substance use disorders
- Professional and self-help resources
- Learning the ALGEE action plan: Approach and assess for risk of suicide or harm, Listen, Give support and information, Encourage appropriate help, and Encourage self-help.
- Completing the training with a certification in mental health first aid, a take-home manual and complimentary continuing education units
One of the key motivators behind the initiative is the high number of young people in Texas who struggle with their mental health. According to recent statistics, over 1.2 million youth under the age of 18 in Texas report having mental, emotional or behavioral health challenges. This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing mental health at an early stage before crises develop.
“These challenges are prevalent. They are something that we can always address and build support around,” Morris said.
The necessity of YMHFA programs became clear when a Travis County high school experienced the loss of a student to suicide. This event spurred a district-wide movement, led by students and supported by educators and community members.
“The students rallied together with teachers to bring awareness and advocate for Youth Mental Health First Aid training to be brought to their schools,” Morris said. “Soon after that, they rallied the support of their local district trustee to come in and advocate for this training to the school board.”
Within months, 10% of the staff at the school were trained in mental health first aid.
The success of this grassroots movement is mirrored by recent legislative changes that support mental health training for school staff. Texas House Bill 3, passed in 2023, mandates that schools provide mental health training for staff, with the goal of training 50% of school employees by the 2026-27 school year, and 100% by 2028-29. As a result, Integral Care has partnered with local schools to provide free training to staff across the district, ensuring that resources are available when needed most.
Looking ahead, Morris envisions expanding the program’s reach to even more schools, youth organizations and community groups. By creating a safety net for young people and bridging the communication gap between youth and adults, the program is fostering a more supportive community.
“There’s so much that adults and youth have in common with each other, but sometimes we don’t know how to access that language,” Morris said.
Through YMHFA training, Integral Care is empowering individuals to act with confidence in the face of mental health challenges. The initiative is not just about crisis prevention—it’s about transforming how mental health is understood and addressed in the community.
“This program can be the jumping point for a person that works with youth to say, ‘I’ve seen it happen, and I don’t want another young person to fall through the cracks,’” Morris said. “They can feel empowered enough to destigmatize the conversations that we have on mental health. This can allow our young people to feel more liberated to voice how they’re feeling and have access to services.”
To become part of this vital movement, register for free Youth Mental Health First Aid training on Integral Care’s Eventbrite.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.