About this course
The Youth Mental Health First Aid course from Mental Health First Aid Ireland is designed for adults who live with, work with or support young people aged between 12 and 18.
This course teaches participants how to assist a young person who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves, using a practical, evidence-based action plan. This evidence-based training programme is particularly suited to parents/guardians, school staff, sports coaches, community group leaders, youth workers etc.
The course curriculum was designed using guidelines developed through the expert consensus of people with lived experience of mental health problems and mental health professionals.
International studies have shown that Mental Health First Aid training is associated with improved knowledge of mental health problems, their treatments and appropriate first aid strategies. MHFA training is also associated with a reduction in stigmatising attitudes, an increase in helping actions as well as confidence in providing first aid to individuals with mental health problems.
Course delivery includes the use of case studies, training videos, group activities and discussion throughout to enhance your learning. All participants who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion and a Youth Mental Health First Aid manual.
Note: This course is not a therapy/support group and is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18 to attend.
Key information
Duration
14 hours
Location
Courses can be delivered online or in-person
Fees
EUR €300.00
Prerequisites
When training is delivered online, all training will default to Zoom, unless otherwise specified. This course is not a therapy/support group and is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18 to attend. If you have experienced a recent crisis or bereavement linked to mental health, we recommend that you wait 12-18 months before attending Mental Health First Aid training.
Upcoming Courses
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How we learn together
The course can be delivered over two days or in four 3.5 hour modules.
Mental Health Topics Covered in this Course
The course curriculum was designed using guidelines developed through the expert consensus of people with lived experience of mental health problems and mental health professionals.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Mental health topics covered
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Eating Disorders
- Psychosis
- Substance Use Problems
Evidence-based
Research and evaluation have been integral to the Mental Health First Aid programme since its inception, led by co-founder Professor Anthony Jorm at the University of Melbourne. International studies have shown that Mental Health First Aid training is associated with improved knowledge of mental health problems, their treatments, and appropriate first aid strategies. It is also linked to a reduction in stigmatising attitudes, increased confidence, and a greater likelihood of offering support to someone in difficulty.
In Ireland, a 2022 study by Janine Horgan at the University of Limerick evaluated participants’ post-training experiences and helping behaviours. The findings confirmed that Mental Health First Aid training enhances knowledge and confidence in supporting others, while also highlighting the role of stigma, access to resources, and the importance of inclusive, supportive environments in enabling effective helping behaviours.
