Building youth mental health support capacity through Extension training

Youth mental health challenges continue to rise nationwide. According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, one in five teens and young adults live with a mental health condition, 10% of youth will experience a substance use disorder in their lifetime, and half of all mental illnesses begin by age 14. These trends highlight the urgent need for trained adults who can recognize warning signs and respond effectively. 

To address this need, Purdue Extension implemented Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), an evidence-based program that equips adults who work with youth ages 12–18 with skills to support mental health and substance use crises. In 2024, Extension educators delivered 27 YMHFA programs in Indiana using a blended learning model combining online preparation with instructor-led training. With support from a Department of Defense grant, Purdue Extension expanded training access to military personnel and other community professionals. 

Participants learned the ALGEE action plan—approach, listen, give support, encourage professional help, and encourage self-help—which provides a structured framework for responding to youth in distress. Evaluation data from 313 participants showed substantial gains in knowledge, confidence and readiness to act. Correct responses related to the ALGEE action plan increased from 41% pre-training to 89% post-training. 

Participants also demonstrated improved confidence in holding supportive conversations with youth, identifying suicide risk and responding to substance use emergencies. Average scores related to recognizing mental health warning signs and understanding adolescent development increased from moderate to high levels. Following the program, 96% of participants reported intent to apply the skills learned and 90% indicated they gained new, practical knowledge. 

Through YMHFA, Purdue Extension strengthened community response capacity by preparing adults to intervene early, connect youth to appropriate resources and promote healthier outcomes. This program directly supports youth well-being, family stability and community resilience by ensuring trusted adults are equipped to act when it matters most.

Purdue Extension | Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds. Photo courtesy of Purdue Extension.