POTSDAM – The county AARP chapter will offer the area’s first local youth mental health first aid training Saturday, July 15, from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on the second floor of the library, 2 Park St. with instructor Bobbi D Laird, M.S./Ed.S.

Similar to first aid and CPR, mental health first aid teaches individuals how to help those experiencing mental health challenges or crises.

This training is open to anyone who interacts with young people on a regular basis.

Teachers, police officers, parents, human service workers, and any local citizens who would like to be better prepared to support a youth in crisis.

Maximum capacity is 25 participants.

Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), eating disorders, and signs of suicidal ideation.

There will be a one-hour break for lunch.

The training will cost $40 per person, which covers the manual, certificate, drinks and light snacks.

If you are interested in participating, please email the instructor at blaird@missionview.org with full name, email address, phone number, and payment type.

You will be provided with a registration number and directions to make payment.

Once payment is received a confirmation number will be provided.

All payments must be received by June 15 in order to guarantee your spot.

For more information, visit us at aarpchapter2831.org or Facebook.com/aarp2831, or contact us at aarp2831@gmail.com.