Youth mental health first aid training proudly sponsored by Englewood Hospital

Englewood, FL — HCA Florida Englewood Hospital is proud to sponsor the YMCA of Southwest Florida’s recent Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training, a free event designed to equip middle and high school students with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use challenges among their peers.

Open to students in grades 6–12, the training emphasized early intervention and peer support, critical tools as teen mental health concerns continue to rise. Participants learned how to identify signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use issues, how to support someone in crisis, and how to connect them with appropriate help. The course also included expanded content on trauma, substance use and self-care strategies.

“The need for early intervention and peer support has never been greater,” said Dr. Scott Howard, emergency care physician at HCA Florida Englewood Hospital. “More than 40% of U.S. high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2023, and nearly one in five seriously considered suicide. When a friend or trusted adult can recognize the symptoms early and provide support, lives can be saved.”

Led by Liz Nason, executive director of the YMCA’s Englewood and Venice locations, the session featured interactive activities to keep students engaged and reinforce key concepts. Community leaders also shared their perspectives on the importance of youth mental health awareness.

“We have so many students dealing with anxiety, ADHD, autism and the general stress of daily life,” said Jennifer Zuppinger, a Girl Scout troop leader, schoolteacher and mother of teenagers. “This training helps students recognize when a friend needs more support and gives them the tools to help.”

“Raising awareness about mental health is critical to building a stronger, more compassionate community,” added Kelsey Visser, chairperson of the Englewood YMCA Community Board. “This training gives students the confidence to act when it matters most.”

The event was hosted by the YMCA of Southwest Florida and sponsored by HCA Florida Healthcare, Paradise Exclusive Real Estate, the Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida and Grand Living of Wellen Park.

For more health education, visit HCA Florida Englewood Hospital classes and events.