Countryside, Ill. — Pillars Community Health (PCH) is offering Youth Mental Health First Aid (Youth MHFA) training to equip adults with the skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in young people—including warning signs related to suicide risk.
Youth Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training designed for adults who work with or care for youth ages 12–18. Similar to traditional first aid or CPR, the training prepares participants to identify early warning signs, provide initial support, and help connect youth to appropriate professional care.
A core component of Youth MHFA focuses on supporting suicide prevention efforts by helping participants recognize warning signs of suicide and self-harm, respond appropriately during moments of heightened concern, and encourage help-seeking behaviors that can reduce risk and strengthen protective factors.
Participants learn:
- Common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges in youth
- Warning signs and risk factors associated with suicide and self-harm
- How to respond using a supportive, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed approach
- How to encourage professional help and connect youth and families to trusted resources
Youth Mental Health First Aid does not train participants to diagnose or provide therapy. Instead, it builds confidence and skills to recognize concerns early, offer initial support, and respond appropriately until professional help is available.
PCH works in coordination with other Mental Health First Aid providers to expand access to training and ensure consistent, high-quality education across the community.
Youth Mental Health First Aid training offered by PCH is supported by the Riverside Township Mental Health Board and community investment focused on strengthening youth mental health and supporting suicide prevention efforts.
“Suicide prevention begins with awareness, connection, and early response,” said Heather Fernandez, Director of Community-Based Youth Services. “Youth Mental Health First Aid equips trusted adults with the skills to recognize early signs, respond with compassion, and take meaningful action. By expanding access to this training, we are empowering our community to be right alongside youth offering support, hope, and connection before challenges grow.”
Youth MHFA is designed for adults who regularly interact with youth, including:
- Parents, caregivers, and guardians
- Teachers, school staff, coaches, and youth-serving organizations
- Community organizations, nonprofit professionals, and volunteers
- Faith leaders and ministry volunteers
- Library, parks, and municipal staff
- Healthcare, behavioral health, and social service professionals
- Law enforcement, first responders, and crisis response teams
According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, millions of people across the United States have been trained in Mental Health First Aid. Research shows that individuals who complete the training demonstrate increased mental health knowledge, reduced stigma, and greater confidence in supporting someone experiencing distress—important protective factors in suicide prevention.
Youth Mental Health First Aid aligns with PCH’s commitment to whole-person care by strengthening early identification, improving community response, and helping ensure youth and families are connected to support when it is needed.
Organizations, schools, and community members interested in hosting or attending a Youth Mental Health First Aid training through PCH can contact Outreach Services at 708-PILLARS or Outreach@PCHCares.org for more information.
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About Pillars Community Health
Pillars Community Health works to improve the health of our communities and empower individuals through compassionate, whole-person care. Serving communities across suburban Cook County, Pillars Community Health provides integrated medical, dental, behavioral health, and support services, along with prevention, outreach, and education initiatives that promote well-being at every stage of life.
Through community-based programs, school partnerships, and outreach services, Pillars Community Health addresses mental health, substance use, and personal safety with a focus on early intervention, access to care, and reducing stigma. The organization is committed to meeting people where they are and helping individuals and families connect to the care and resources they need, when they need them.
For more information about Pillars Community Health and its services, visit PillarsCommunityHealth.org or call 708-PILLARS.