Big Brothers Big Sisters of McDonough County Expands Youth Mental Health Efforts with Teen Mental Health First Aid Certification.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley-McDonough County is excited to announce that Program Director Sarah Baca and Program Specialist Ashley Comstock have been certified as Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) Instructors through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
Teen Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-informed training program that teaches teens in grades 9–12 or ages 14-18 how to recognize when a friend may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis, how to respond in a safe and supportive way, and when and how to connect a trusted adult for additional help. The course is designed to build confidence, reduce stigma surrounding mental health, and empower young people to support one another while understanding the importance of seeking adult assistance.
As part of this new initiative, Big Brothers Big Sisters will host its first Teen Mental Health First Aid workshop at the BBBS office, located at 1401 W. University Drive in Macomb, Monday, July 27, Wednesday, July 29, and Friday, July 31. Participants may choose between a 10:00-11:30 a.m. session or a 1:00-2:30 p.m. session each day. Attendance at all three sessions is required to complete the course.
'At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we know that today's teens are facing challenges unlike any generation before them,' said Sarah Baca, Program Director. 'By bringing Teen Mental Health First Aid to our community, we're giving young people practical skills to recognize when a friend may be struggling, start supportive conversations, and connect them with a trusted adult. It's another way we can help create a stronger, healthier community for our youth.'
The training is free for eligible participants and provides a safe, engaging environment where teens can learn through discussion, activities, and real-life scenarios. While the course does not teach teens to become counselors or diagnose mental health conditions, it equips them with the knowledge and confidence to be supportive peers and recognize when professional help may be needed.
This certification reflects Big Brothers Big Sisters of McDonough County’s ongoing commitment to supporting the social, emotional, and mental well-being of local youth through mentoring, education, and community partnerships.
For more information or to register for the Teen Mental Health First Aid workshop, contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Mississippi Valley at 309-837-5437 or sbaca@bbbs-mv. org.
