United Way of Hunterdon County offers free youth mental health training to address escalating youth mental health crisis
Learn how to support teens in crisis—free Youth Mental Health First Aid training for parents, coaches, and volunteers who care about youth well-being.
FLEMINGTON, NJ (Hunterdon County) – United Way of Hunterdon County is addressing the youth mental health crisis by offering a free Youth Mental Health First Aid training on Tuesday, May 27, at 20 Fulper Road in Flemington.
The evidence-based course is designed for adults who regularly interact with young people and want to better support those experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or substance use issues.
Open to the public at no cost, the training will provide participants with tools to identify warning signs, understand adolescent development and mental health, and apply a five-step action plan to assist youth in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
“We are facing a national emergency when it comes to youth mental health,” said Jennifer Thompson, MSW, CEO of United Way of Hunterdon County. “According to the CDC, nearly three in five teenage girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021—a 60% increase over the past decade. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death for young people aged 10 to 24. These statistics are devastating—and they demand action.”
The Surgeon General’s 2021 Advisory on Protecting Youth Mental Health and reports from the American Academy of Pediatrics have declared youth mental health a national crisis. Thompson noted the need for more adults trained to recognize signs of mental health struggles and guide youth toward appropriate support.
The training is intended for parents, guardians, sports coaches, referees, youth leaders, mentors, educators, afterschool program staff, and clergy or faith-based youth workers.
“No one expects a parent or coach to be a mental health professional,” said Thompson. “But anyone can be trained in Mental Health First Aid. This course helps adults recognize when a teen is struggling and respond effectively.”
According to the CDC’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 42% of high school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness, 22% seriously considered suicide, and 10% attempted it. LGBTQ+ and BIPOC youth continue to face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Registration is required and space is limited. Visit https://youthmentalhealthuwhc.eventbrite.com to sign up.
Participants will earn a nationally recognized certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid. No prior experience is required.
“Just like CPR saves lives, Mental Health First Aid can too,” Thompson said. “Together, we can build a community where every young person feels seen, supported, and safe.”
