Action 1: Approach the person, assess, and assist with any crisis “The Youth MHFAider should try not to seem frantic or stressed and put the young person first in that moment.” Teddy, 17 years old The first action is to approach the person, look out for any crises, and assist the young person through them. Approach If you think that a young person is showing signs of poor mental health and is in need of support, approach them about your concerns. The Youth MHFAider should have the confidence to approach the young person and ensure that the young person will feel safe, comfortable, and supported talking to you. Please note that the situation might make this difficult, so the Youth MHFAider should try to encourage this as much as is possible in the circumstances. The key points are to: Try to find a suitable time and space At an appropriate time, try to find a place where you both feel comfortable. It may be that the young person chooses to approach you, but you should initiate a conversation if they don’t do so themselves. If it is not a suitable time or place to talk, try to ensure that the young person feels that you have recognised their needs. Arrange a suitable time and place to be able to give them your full attention. If you are a parent/carer who has spotted signs of poor mental health in your child, you might want to consider taking your child out individually for a meal or snack. You might also consider talking
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