Young people frequently turn to their friends during times of psychological distress. Research suggests that young people have reasonable levels of mental health literacy, are able to recognise common mental illnesses, and have some understanding of effective treatments. However, young people must be better supported to develop the skills needed to assist a friend experiencing a mental health problem or crisis and when to refer on to a capable and trusted adult.
The tMHFA program teaches young people the minimum skill set to:
1. Recognise the signs of a mental health problem developing.
2. Recognise the signs of a mental health crisis, particularly suicide.
3. Get a responsible and trusted adult to take over, as necessary.
Further information is available here.