Building Harmony & Peace Mental Health first aid training for youth
By Paulette Johnson
200 William St Downtown Fredericksburg 540-373-4421 crownjewelersfredericksburg.com
Many people are expressing deep concern about today’s youth, especially about the growing numbers of Teen Suicide. But few adults have stepped up to the challenge with a willingness to learn warning signs and proven steps to protect young people. National Council for The Community Behavioral Health Care designed a training model to equip adults working proactively with youth. The model identifies signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in emotional crisis and guides interventions via a five-step action plan: Assess for risk of suicide or harm Listen nonjudgmentally Give reassurance and information Encourage appropriate professional help Encourage self-help and other support strategies Aikido in Fredericksburg’s Chief Instructor, Aviv Goldsmith, became aware the Mental Health First Aid for Youth cutting edge training. He understood its importance and quickly decided to attend
the Training and offer it to his Aikido students. Sensei Aviv states, “One of the great things about Aikido training is that it is accessible for anyone with a sincere interest to learn. We don’t discriminate against people with physical disabilities or Mental Health issues. We have a vibrant Youth Program at Aikido in Fredericksburg. It is very important for adults that often work with Youth to have some training in dealing with Youth that are having difficulties. I have welcomed the MHFA training to be hosted at our School. Hopeful, it should provide additional skills in our toolbox.” Aikido Student Rand Engle agrees, “Aikido has enormous capacity to help young people gain self-confidence, improve comfort in their bodies, communication skills, awareness of others, and better friendships. Sadly, I have become aware of the growing numbers of young people today who are struggling with depression and anxiety, due in part to social media. Replacing direct connection with others. I have found Aikido practice to be a very powerful builder of resilience. That counteracts fragility. I am attending the Training to be more aware of the sensitivities and issues that young people face. Learning when and how we might suggest options that will be appropriate supports”. Finally, Aikido Student Oliver Johnson (photo), believes that after spending close to 30 years practicing the art of Aikido as well as serving 32 years as a High School Health Teacher. “Today’s society demands a higher level of focus for all of us to better understand the conflicts, stresses, and challenges facing today’s Youth”. Johnson continued “I remain dedicated to practicing and learning all I can to make sure our Youth are safe and
protected from harm. Aikido has helped me over many years to stay in balance with the importance of achieving Health and Wellness. The Mental Health Aid Training for Youth will be a continuation of my life-long goal to pursue Peace and Happiness among our Youth.” It is clear and very transparent. Aikido of Fredericksburg students take very seriously the ethic of building Harmony and Peace among the Youth in our Community. We must be ever so grateful for their boldness and courage to face together the challenges facing today’s Youth. Paulette Johnson RN , Instructor Mental Health First Aid for Youth
Historic Renwick Courthouse 815 Princess Anne Street, Downtown Fredericksburg front porch fredericksburg
February 2020
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