Increasing understanding and reducing the stigma of youth mental illness
Jennifer Rojas-McWhinney, Ph.D., CFLE
By Jennifer Rojas-McWhinney, Ph.D., CFLE, Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor
Senior Director at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: Campus Alliance for Telehealth Resources (CATR) Services for Students, Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine (TCHATT), and Child Psychiatry Access Network (CPAN)
Approximately 20–25% of youth ages 13–18 are diagnosed with a mental disorder with severe impairment, according to data from the National Comorbidity Survey—Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A). Such statistics indicate that it’s imperative for families, schools, and communities to address youths’ mental health challenges. Yet, barriers can exist in identifying services and appropriate professionals.
That makes it vital to consider alternative approaches to alleviating mental health challenges and crises.
As a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid USA instructor, I’ve conducted trainings for families, educators, community members, and church leadership to improve mental health awareness, connect people with valuable resources, and offer guidance on supportive responses.
Rather than teaching how to diagnose mental illness or provide therapy, Mental Health First Aid training is designed to increase understanding of mental illness, reduce stigma, and provide resources for those in roles supporting youth. Training educators, parents and family members, organization staff, and others who work with students offers a unique opportunity to prepare a network of people striving to work with youth.
I’ve had countless interactions with trainees who have said that this program has given them confidence to implement the training’s action plan within their personal and professional lives. There is a sense of relief when someone feels better equipped to respond to the challenges of youth mental health.
I am always invigorated by the overwhelmingly positive feedback people share after completing the training. With millions of youth struggling with mental health problems, Youth Mental Health First Aid provides an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.