Supporting Youth Through Culturally Grounded Mental Health Training

Apr 14, 2025

On Monday, April 14th, 36 teachers and counselors from the Mt. Adams School District participated in Youth Mental Health First Aid for Tribal Communities and Indigenous Peoples, a training designed to equip school staff with the tools to confidently recognize and respond to Indigenous adolescents (ages 12–18) who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge or crisis. The training emphasized the importance of early intervention during adolescence—a critical period of growth and vulnerability—while honoring the cultural strengths, traditions, and healing practices of Tribal communities.

Participants gained practical strategies for supporting students in distress, building trust, and connecting youth with appropriate resources. For staff who were unable to attend in April, a second training will be offered on Tuesday, May 27th, continuing our commitment to culturally responsive, community-rooted prevention and care.