College of Nursing Hosting Mental Health Certification Sessions

The University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Nursing is hosting a series of certification courses in the Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) program this fall. Students from the four UC Academic Health Center (AHC) colleges are being invited to the courses through specific classes.

An evidence-based program adopted in 23 countries, YMHFA involves intensive instruction and hands-on application, teaching adults how to identify and assist young people with a mental health problem. The program is approximately eight hours long in total and the students will partake in two four-hour workshops to complete the certification. Sessions are being held at Procter Hall, home to the College of Nursing, throughout September and October of 2017. A session open to AHC faculty and staff is scheduled for Dec. 11, 2017.

Following a five-step action plan, participants learn how to assess for risk of suicide or harm, listen nonjudgmentally, give reassurance and information, encourage appropriate professional help and encourage self-help and other support strategies.