Youth mental health first aid training to empower Benalla

YMHFA training enables participants to identify early signs of mental distress or crisis and provide initial support until appropriate professional help can be accessed.

Those who complete all components of the course become accredited Mental Health First Aiders, able to assist young people with confidence, compassion and informed understanding.

The training will be held over four evening sessions:

The training will take place at the Tomorrow Today Foundation, 66 Nunn St, Benalla.

Participants must attend all four sessions to receive accreditation as a mental health first-aider.

Deputy Mayor Justin King said strengthening community capacity to support young people is a priority.

“Mental health is a recognised issue in Benalla Rural City, and it’s imperative that we take action to better educate and support our community,” Cr King said.

“I encourage anyone who is interested, to participate in this training.

“This training strengthens our ability to care for our young people and support their wellbeing and resilience.”

In Term two, Year 8 students from the Australian Christian College, Benalla P-12 College and FCJ College will complete teen mental health first aid training.

A key part of the Teen MHFA relies on young people having adults around them who are trained, prepared and confident to help.

“Ensuring more adults in Benalla are equipped with the right knowledge and skills is essential to the wellbeing of young people experiencing mental health problems or crisis,” Cr King said.

“When adults are trained, young people are not left to navigate these challenges alone.”

Benalla Rural City Council, through the Live4Life Benalla partnership, is offering this training at a subsidised rate of $25 per participant. Spaces are limited.

Visit www.benalla.vic.gov.au/YMHFA to register your interest by Wednesday, April 22.