About tMHFA

Teen Mental Health FIrst Aid is an evidence-based training program for teens in grades 10-12, or ages 15-18, that teaches teens how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges among
friends and peers.

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The Need

Since 2015, Mercer County has experienced an alarming trend of increasing youth suicides, suicidal ideation and attempts. In our work conducting school-based workshops, we, too, have experienced increasing numbers of youth disclosing suicidal ideation. Suicide remains the third leading cause of death for youth age 10-24 in New Jersey*, and Mercer is among the top 3 counties with the highest rates of suicide attempts and self inflicted injuries statewide.

In our work providing Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for children and youth in crisis, we routinely screen for suicide risk and make crisis referrals for youth needing immediate intervention and a higher level of care due to suicide risk. In 2021, we have seen an increase in the need for these referrals.

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*Source: 2016 Suicide Report by NJ Division of Children & Families.

Strategic Approach

PEI Kids’ programs help children at a crossroads work through some of the most critical and tumultuous times in their lives. Consistent with our role as a community leader in child safety and well-being, PEI Kids views the tMHFA initiative as a strategic fit within our program offering.

Through this project, we hope to address emerging mental health needs by proactively addressing the mental health challenges and social-emotional needs our youth may be facing as they return to school and the social environment following the stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Kind Words

“The quality and support of counseling my children received from PEI Kids has been wonderful. I was so impressed the way the counselor was able to accommodate my Sam’s special needs throughout therapy. (Sam is autistic.)”

“PEI Kids is a great place to take your child for counseling, the staff has been very polite and understanding. The counselor has done an excellent job counseling my daughter, and my daughter was able to turn things around. I thank her very much.”

“Without this program, I do not feel we would have been able to work through my daughter’s issues. Let’s hope PEI Kids continues for years to come. The staff has been helpful, supportive of both my child and me.”

“PEI Kids has been a wonderful asset to myself and my daughter. God bless you.”

“Thank you so much Dr. Brooks for helping my daughter. I am so grateful for this place.”