Giving teens the skills to support their peers and recognize when it’s time to involve a trusted adult
Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) teaches students in grades 9–12 how to recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges in their peers, respond appropriately, and connect them with support.
2B CONTINUED brings this program to 32 schools across our region, with seven classroom lessons led by our certified tMHFA instructors. Students gain practical skills they can use when a friend may be struggling, while learning that they don’t have to handle the situation on their own.
There is no cost to participating schools or students. Through the generous support of 2B CONTINUED’s donors, grants, and community supporters, we’re able to bring this program to schools at no cost.
See tMHFA In Action
Watch this short video to take a quick look at how 2B CONTINUED brings tMHFA to schools and gives students the skills and confidence to support their peers.
Why tMHFA Matters
Teens are often among the first to notice when something has changed with a friend. tMHFA gives students the knowledge and confidence to recognize warning signs, have supportive conversations, and connect a friend with a trusted adult or appropriate resources.
About the Curriculum
Teen Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based curriculum developed by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and delivered locally by 2B CONTINUED’s certified tMHFA instructors. It is delivered during the regular school day and includes seven classroom lessons featuring discussions, activities, videos, and workbook exercises.
2B CONTINUED does not create the curriculum, but instead partners with schools to bring this nationally recognized program to students throughout our region.
Through the program, students learn about:
- Common mental health and substance use challenges
- Stress management and healthy coping strategies
- Self-care and wellness
- Recognizing changes in thoughts, feelings, or behavior
- How to respond supportively to peers
- The role of trusted adults and available supports
Building a Network of Support
tMHFA is one part of creating a school community where mental health conversations are more comfortable and support is easier to find. As part of the program, at least 10% of school staff are required to be certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA).
This doesn’t have to be just teachers. Counselors, administrators, paraprofessionals, coaches, office staff, and other adults who regularly interact with students can all play an important role.
YMHFA certification is valid for three years, giving schools a lasting network of trained adults who understand how to recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges and connect young people with appropriate support.
Parent and community information sessions are also available, helping extend the conversation beyond the school building and creating a shared understanding of how adults can support young people.
What Students are Saying
Our 2025–26 pre- and post-training survey results show clear growth in students’ confidence and understanding. Take a look at how tMHFA is strengthening awareness and building skills.
In the Local News
2B CONTINUED was featured in Boyd Huppert’s Land of 10,000 Stories in May 2024. Take a look to see how tMHFA is making a difference.
2026–27 Participating Schools
The following 32 schools across our service area are equipping their students with the skills and knowledge to support one another in the 2026-27 school year.
Want to Learn More About tMHFA?
Have questions about tMHFA or wondering if it could be a good fit for your school? Reach out to 2B CONTINUED to learn more about the program and bringing it to your school community.
Call 2B CONTINUED at 320-854-4673 or email info@2BContinued.org for more information.
