The purpose of this project is to evaluate participant knowledge and use of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) before and after attending Mental Health First Aid training. Mental Health First Aide training is offered to the students, faculty, staff and coaches at West Chester University of Pennsylvania at no cost. College students are at higher risk for mental illness, substance use and suicide. There are campus resources available but how do we reach those who do not seek help for various reasons or do not realize that they need help? Mental Health First Aid was developed in Australia in 2001 and introduced in the United States in 2008. It is based on evidence and expert consensus. By providing mental health first aid to the college population, we increase awareness of mental disorders, educate the college population on how to help those with mental illness and reduce to stigma of mental illness.
Methods:
The project design is a pre/post-test design. After participants register electronically for the Mental Health First Aid course, they will be emailed an invitation to participate in a research project which will consist of a pre-survey and post-surveys at 3 months post MHFA course.
Objective:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and use of MHFA training using pre and post surveys (knowledge) for tools.
Hypothesis:
Mental Health First Aid training will:
- Improved knowledge regarding MHFA.
- Decrease stigma of mental health problems on our campus.
- Lead to earlier intervention for mental health problems on our college campus.
Research Questions:
Does MHFA training improve the knowledge regarding mental health illnesses, know the appropriate ways to support someone with a mental health issue or who may be in crisis, connect to care someone with a mental health issue, and decrease mental health stigma on our campus?
Results:
Improved post-test scores following Mental Health First Aid training course. Students, faculty and staff correctly answer scenario questions post MHFA training. Initial test scores average 76% and increase to a 90%-100% post MHFA training. Qualitative results indicated that students, faculty and staff are more prepared to handle for a mental health issue or crisis. Respondents provided examples of when MHFA principles were used.
Conclusion:
Mental Health First Aid training is a useful training tool for college campuses. By providing mental health first aid to the college population, we increased awareness of mental disorders, educated the college population, which included faculty, staff and students, on how to help those with mental illness and reduce to stigma of mental illness.