Ames CSD Offers Youth Mental Health First Aid Training to Support Student Well-Being
In a progressive step toward addressing student mental health needs, the Ames Community School District has introduced Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) training for select school staff members, including all certified teaching staff. This initiative reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive environment that emphasizes the importance of mental health in students’ overall success and development.
YMHFA is an internationally recognized program designed to teach adults how to help adolescents who are experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge or are in crisis. The training covers how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health concerns among youth ages 12-18. By offering YMHFA training, the district equips key staff members, including teachers, counselors, coaches, and administrators, with the skills to identify, understand, and respond to mental health needs.
The need for mental health resources in schools has become increasingly important in recent years. Studies show that mental health issues in youth have risen significantly. According to the CDC, approximately one in five American adolescents experiences some form of mental health challenge each year. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges have been reported at an increased rate among young people. Schools, where students spend a significant portion of their day, are an ideal place to provide initial support.
“The district decided to offer this training as part of the overall strategic plan and the district mental health plan because increasing mental health challenges among youth is a major concern for our community and district, and supporting mental well-being in schools is crucial for students’ success and personal growth,” said Dr. Deani Thomas, Director of Special Education. “When schools prioritize mental health, students are more likely to feel safe, valued, and understood, which creates a positive learning environment where they can thrive.”
The YMHFA training program teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health issues in youth. The course covers a variety of topics, including how to approach young people who may be struggling, understanding the risk factors and warning signs of mental illnesses, and strategies to de-escalate a crisis situation.
The curriculum focuses on providing a comprehensive overview of adolescent development and the unique mental health challenges that young people face. Staff members learn a five-step action plan known as ALGEE:
- Assess for risks
- Listen non-judgmentally
- Give reassurance and information
- Encourage appropriate professional help
- Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Through these steps, staff members are trained to react in moments of crisis and build supportive relationships with students that can prevent challenges from escalating.
The decision to implement YMHFA training in Ames CSD came from a clear recognition of mental health’s critical role in students’ overall well-being. By equipping teachers and other staff with mental health first aid skills, the district aims to create a community of understanding and proactive intervention, ensuring that students facing challenges have safe, supportive adults they can turn to.
“Recognizing signs of mental health challenges also allows teachers to provide timely support or refer students to appropriate resources, potentially preventing further distress,” said Dr. Thomas. “Additionally, understanding mental health helps teachers foster stronger relationships with their students, which can enhance both academic outcomes and students’ emotional resilience, leading to more positive school experiences for everyone involved.”
The district has strategically selected key staff members for the YMHFA training. These include teachers who regularly interact closely with students, counselors trained to offer guidance, and nurses who often see students for other health-related concerns. By training a diverse range of staff members, the district ensures that students can find support from trusted adults in various areas of their school life.
Each participant in the YMHFA training brings unique insights based on their position and interactions with students. Teachers may notice changes in classroom behavior, and counselors or nurses are often the first to hear about students’ personal concerns. By training individuals in each of these roles, the district creates a multi-layered support network where students can find help no matter where they turn. However, staff are encouraged to balance their role as educators and support staff with the mental health support they provide.
The benefits of YMHFA training extend beyond those who directly receive help; it fosters a culture of awareness and support within the entire school community. By cultivating an environment where mental health is openly acknowledged, and support is readily available, the district helps to reduce stigma around mental health challenges, encouraging students to seek help without fear or shame.
“Mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma can hinder students’ ability to focus, participate, and engage effectively in the classroom,” says Dr. Thomas. “When teachers are aware of these challenges, they can create a more supportive, understanding, and inclusive learning environment. Additionally, understanding mental health helps teachers foster stronger relationships with their students, which can enhance both academic outcomes and students’ emotional resilience, leading to more positive school experiences for everyone involved.”
The Ames CSD’s YMHFA initiative is part of a larger community effort to address the mental health needs of young people. The district has partnered with local mental health organizations and healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive approach, connecting students with appropriate resources and professionals when needed. In addition, the district plans to extend the program’s impact by educating families and the broader community on the importance of youth mental health. Two Parent University sessions, one of which was held in September 2024, will be offered this school year regarding mental health, allowing families to better understand how they can support their children at home.
The Ames CSD’s decision to implement YMHFA training marks an important step in addressing the mental health needs of its students. However, the district views this as only the beginning of a sustained commitment to supporting student wellness. The district will evaluate the program’s effectiveness and gather participant feedback to continuously improve the initiative. The district also aims to expand training opportunities in the coming years, to reach even more staff members and, ultimately, make mental health support an integral part of the district’s culture.
The introduction of YMHFA training underscores Ames CSD’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of our students and fostering a culture of understanding and support. By equipping staff with the tools to identify and respond to mental health challenges, the district ensures that students can access compassionate, informed adults who can guide them through difficult times. This program is not just about crisis response—it is about building a community where mental health is valued, conversations are encouraged, and stigma is diminished. As the district continues to expand and refine this initiative, it reaffirms its dedication to creating an environment where every student can thrive, both academically and emotionally.