GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — More than 80 school safety experts from across the Kent Independent School District came together to help solve a growing problem among young people.
The Hope Network provided a day-long evidence-based training on youth mental health first aid.
The curriculum helps train staff to recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health issues.
“Looking at what they look like, if they're coming to school, if their behavior has changed, if they're suddenly becoming more withdrawn, and noticing those differences and helping those around them understand are some of the resources and ways to get these individuals the support that they need,” said Floyd Booker, senior director of learning and development and DEI at Hope Network.
The initiative is part of the Hope Network, which develops mental health education projects across Michigan.
The goal is to train individuals on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness, de-escalate crisis situations, provide education about resources and services available in the community, and connect people to those resources.
According to the Hope Network, one in six youth and adolescents will experience some form of mental illness at any given time.
