Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) Helper Training

Half day YAM Helper training is being held at Newcastle High School, Hamilton on 5 July.

To register your interest please email Jennifer Rhodes, YAM Area Coordinator jennifer.rhodes4@det.nsw.edu.au with your:

• Name
• Mobile
• Email
• Occupation
• Working With Children Check number
• DOB.

Registrations close 3 July.

Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) is an evidence-based mental health program for young people aged 14 – 16 years. YAM gets young people involved and talking about mental health through role-play and discussion. By doing this, they learn problem solving skills and gain knowledge about mental health. YAM is delivered by a trained YAM Instructor assisted by a YAM Helper, who provide young people with a safe and non-judgemental space to explore mental health topics such as stress, crisis and depression.

What does being a YAM Helper involve? 

• Being present in the room and helping manage the classroom for the duration of the program
• Belping to prepare the classroom assisting with handing out program materials supervising and/or participating in role plays
• Helping the YAM Instructor and school staff connect students with support if needed
• Checking in with the YAM Instructor about your experience and providing feedback on the session.

What is the commitment? 

Training: Half day YAM Helper training or equivalent (e.g. observation of YAM sessions).
Program Delivery: Attending a YAM program

Helping with one full YAM program requires approximately 7 hours over 3 weeks, including:

• Week 1: 2 - 3 hours 
• Week 2: 2 - 3 hours 
• Week 3: 1.5-2 hours  

*Note: YAM sessions are generally delivered on the same day each week

What do I need to be a YAM Helper? 

• A valid Working With Children Check (or willingness to obtain)
• A supportive and non-judgemental attitude
• Confidence to help deliver YAM
• Commitment to undertake YAM Helper training
• Commitment to helping with at least two full YAM programs across Terms 3 and 4
• Willingness and ability to travel.