With teen mental health challenges on the rise, a free Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training aims to equip high school students with the tools to recognize and respond to a crisis, just like CPR prepares them for a medical emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 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. The need for early intervention and peer support has never been greater. The YMCA of Southwest Florida will host a youth MHFA training on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Forum Theatre at Grand Living Wellen Park, 19985 Market Way, Venice. The goal is to train 60 students in grades 9–12 to recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges, respond appropriately and connect peers to help. To register, call 844.630.5295 visit: HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.