What is YAM?
YAM offers a hands-on approach to mental health issues such as stress, crisis, depression and suicide. The programme spans over five sessions with three role-play workshops at the core. YAM is based on empathy building and finding solutions as a group, the YAM youth reflect and analyse their actions through play and dialogue.
Through the discussion of different perspectives on problems, the participants learn that they as individuals are not alone responsible for solving their problems, but that they can together help each other to feel better.
Identifying mental health resources in the community and connecting individuals and schools with such organisations, YAM offers support after the programme ends.
Who is YAM for in County Durham?
The YAM program in County Durham is aimed at year 9 students. The program provides students with a platform for discussion and play around mental health and empowers young people by encouraging them to:
- learn from peers
- reflect on different perspectives and experiences
- teaching when and how to get help
- inviting discussion
- boosting confidence and knowledge about mental health
- taking on mental health stigma
- nurturing empathy and how to act on it
- placing adults next to youth, actively listening to their stories
For more information or to request Youth of Mental Health is delivered in your school please contact epsdurham@durham.go.uk