Expanding youth and teen mental health first aid, supporting adolescent mental health - mental health is consistently reported as a major health concern in north suburban chicago

Through funding from the mhat grant, the josselyn center's program will educate and train 3,500 participants over the course of five years in youth and teen mental health first aid (mhfa). The population of focus will be students in grades 10-12 and school or youth organization personnel or volunteers in northern cook and lake counties. Program goals are as follows. Train 3,500 participants in youth or teen mhfa to increase the number of adults who work with adolescents and of adolescents to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental disorders, particularly SMI and SED. Establish linkages between the josselyn center and area high schools to increase referrals to the josselyn center. Increase the capacity of adults who work with adolescents and of adolescents to learn how to employ crisis DE-escalation techniques. Educate 3,500 participants about resources that are available in the community for individuals with a mental disorder. We will train the following number of participants each year: 350 in Y1, 500 in Y2, 750 in Y3, 900 in Y4, 1,000 in Y5. Measurable objectives: at least 85% of mhfa trainees will agree or strongly agree as follows. They have an improved ability to recognize mental disorders, SMI and SED. The training reduces stigma and provides information about referrals and treatment. They know how to make a referral to the josselyn center. They have a better understanding of the mental health services at the josselyn center. They are better able to identify persons with a mental health disorder and employ crisis DE-escalation techniques learned in mhfa. They will know how to respond and refer someone in a crisis for treatment. They have a better understanding of mental health resources in the community. They feel more confident in their ability to start a conversation which may lead to a referral. The catchment area covers northern cook and lake counties, illinois. Population characteristics include the following. Living with a disability 9.8% free or reduced lunch households 36.1% unemployment rate 6% uninsured 9.9% housing cost burdened households 35.7% housing units with substandard conditions 36.5%