This course is designed to teach parents, family members, teachers, school staff, neighbors, and other caring adults about (1) the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, (2) the importance of early intervention, and (3) how to help an adolescent experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. The course focuses on information that participants can use to help youth ages 12-18.

Adverse Childhood Experiences, more commonly known as ACEs, are stressful or traumatic events experienced during childhood. Research shows that these events impact brain development and are associated with health problems throughout the lifespan. Participants learn about the ACEs research and approaches to foster trauma-informed, healing-centered environments for children, families, and communities.