The Fort Dodge Community School District is offering opportunities for parents and community members to become certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid.

The YMHFA training course is designed for lay people to learn methods of assisting a young person who may be in the early stages of developing a mental health problem or in a mental health crisis.

This is designed for members of the public who have frequent contact with youth and young adults, such as parents, school staff, sports coaches, and youth workers/volunteers. It is most relevant when it is first apparent to an adult that a youth or young adult is exhibiting signs of emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. It can also provide useful information on how to assist a young person who has had long term mental health challenges or a history of a serious mental disorder.

This free, eight-hour course will be offered at the Fort Dodge Middle School on:

Nov. 14 and Nov. 16 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 8 for this session

Jan. 9 and Jan. 11 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Registration deadline is Dec. 22 for this session.

Participants only need to attend one two-day session. The sessions will not be held if there are not at least 10 participants. To participate or to register, email Amanda Becker at abecker@fdschools.org.