McLean County High School (MCHS) is making history as the first traditional high school in Kentucky to train an entire class of students to become Teen Mental Health First Aiders (tMHFA), according to an announcement from RiverValley Behavioral Health. MCHSC and RVBH are partnering for the initiative, which aims to equip students with the skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges among their peers.
“Mental health issues and struggles are on the rise, especially for our young people,” said Caitlin Ranburger, MCHS School Counselor. “What better way to combat those issues than to be proactive and educate our youth about mental health? I am excited our students are getting the opportunity to participate in this program, and I can’t wait to see the impact it has on our school.”
According to a release from RiverValley, tMHFA is an evidence-based program designed to teach young people how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental health crisis among their peers and connect them with appropriate support. The training equips students with the skills needed to approach, support, and guide friends who may be experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or thoughts of suicide.
“This effort has the potential to make an incredible, positive impact on the school and the surrounding community,” said Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, RVBH President & CEO. “By empowering students with this knowledge, the program aims to reduce stigma, increase peer support, and create a safer, more connected school environment, fostering a supportive space where seeking help is normalized and encouraged.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five teenagers in the United States experiences a mental health challenge each year. In Kentucky, recent data revealed that “more than 18% of high school students report experiencing depression severe enough to impact their daily lives,” the release says.
“By training McLean County High School students in Teen Mental Health First Aid, we are giving them the tools to make a measurable difference,” said Mattea Meadows, RVBH Transition-Age Youth Coordinator. “Students often turn to peers when struggling, making it critical for their friends to have the knowledge to respond effectively. Equipping teens with these skills can be a lifeline, ensuring those in crisis feel heard and supported.”
