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Richardson R, Dale HE, Robertson L, Meader N, Wellby G, McMillan D, Churchill R. Mental Health First Aid as a tool for improving mental health and well-being. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 8:CD013127. [PMID: 37606172 PMCID: PMC10444982 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013127.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of mental health problems is high, and they have a wide-ranging and deleterious effect on many sectors in society. As well as the impact on individuals and families, mental health problems in the workplace negatively affect productivity. One of the factors that may exacerbate the impact of mental health problems is a lack of 'mental health literacy' in the general population. This has been defined as 'knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders, which aid their recognition, management, or prevention'. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a brief training programme developed in Australia in 2000; its aim is to improve mental health literacy and teach mental health first aid strategies. The course has been adapted for various contexts, but essentially covers the symptoms of various mental health disorders, along with associated mental health crisis situations. The programmes also teach trainees how to provide immediate help to people experiencing mental health difficulties, as well as how to signpost to professional services. It is theorised that improved knowledge will encourage the trainees to provide support, and encourage people to actively seek help, thereby leading to improvements in mental health. This review focuses on the effects of MHFA on the mental health and mental well-being of individuals and communities in which MHFA training has been provided. We also examine the impact on mental health literacy. This information is essential for decision-makers considering the role of MHFA training in their organisations. OBJECTIVES To examine mental health and well-being, mental health service usage, and adverse effects of MHFA training on individuals in the communities in which MHFA training is delivered. SEARCH METHODS We developed a sensitive search strategy to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of MHFA training. This approach used bibliographic databases searching, using a search strategy developed for Ovid MEDLINE (1946 -), and translated across to Ovid Embase (1974 -), Ovid PsycINFO (1967 -), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Group's Specialised Register (CCMDCTR). We also searched online clinical trial registries (ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP), grey literature and reference lists of included studies, and contacted researchers in the field to identify additional and ongoing studies. Searches are current to 13th June 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs and cluster-RCTs comparing any type of MHFA-trademarked course to no intervention, active or attention control (such as first aid courses), waiting list control, or alternative mental health literacy interventions. Participants were individuals in the communities in which MHFA training is delivered and MHFA trainees. Primary outcomes included mental health and well-being of individuals, mental health service usage and adverse effects of MHFA training. Secondary outcomes related to individuals, MHFA trainees, and communities or organisations in which MHFA training has been delivered DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard Cochrane methods. We analysed categorical outcomes as risk ratios (RRs) and odds ratios (ORs), and continuous outcomes as mean differences (MDs) or standardised mean differences (SMDs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We pooled data using a random-effects model. Two review authors independently assessed the key results using the Risk of Bias 2 tool and applied the GRADE criteria to assess the certainty of evidence MAIN RESULTS: Twenty-one studies involving a total of 22,604 participants were included in the review. Fifteen studies compared MHFA training with no intervention/waiting list, two studies compared MHFA training with an alternative mental health literacy intervention, and four studies compared MHFA training with an active or an attention control intervention. Our primary time point was between six and 12 months. When MHFA training was compared with no intervention, it may have little to no effect on the mental health of individuals at six to 12 months, but the evidence is very uncertain (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.28; 3 studies; 3939 participants). We judged all the results that contributed to this outcome as being at high risk of bias. No study measured mental health service usage at six to 12 months. We did not find published data on adverse effects. Only one study with usable data compared MHFA training with an alternative mental health literacy intervention. The study did not measure outcomes in individuals in the community. It also did not measure outcomes at our primary time point of six to 12 months. Four studies with usable data compared MHFA training to an active or attention control. None of the studies measured outcomes at our primary time point of six to 12 months. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We cannot draw conclusions about the effects of MHFA training on our primary outcomes due to the lack of good quality evidence. This is the case whether it is compared to no intervention, to an alternative mental health literacy intervention, or to an active control. Studies are at high risk of bias and often not sufficiently large to be able to detect differences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Holly Eve Dale
- Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Bracknell, UK
| | | | | | - George Wellby
- Department of Psychiatry, West London Mental Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Dean McMillan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
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Liang Md M, Chen Md Q, Guo Md J, Mei PhD Z, Wang Md J, Zhang Md Y, He Md L, Li PhD Y. Mental health first aid improves mental health literacy among college students: A meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:1196-1205. [PMID: 34242537 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1925286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mental health first aid (MHFA) may have beneficial effects on the public's knowledge, attitude, and behavior; however, its effectiveness in increasing mental health literacy on college students remains unknown. METHODS We systematically searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to January 2020. We included trials that compared the effect between the MHFA program group and control group on the knowledge, stigmatizing attitudes, confidence, and intention of college students. A random-effects model was used. RESULTS We analyzed five trials involving 1134 participants and found that the MHFA program could significantly increase the student's knowledge (SMD: 0.49, 95% CI: [0.28-0.70]) and confidence (SMD: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.24-1.19). CONCLUSIONS Overall, the MHFA program could increase college students' knowledge regarding mental health and confidence to support people with mental health problems. However, well-designed control trials are required to investigate the program's effect on mental health literacy in college students. ABBREVIATIONS MHFA, Mental health first aid; GPs, General Practioners; CI, confidence interval; SMD, standardized mean24difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mining Liang Md
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, Republic of China
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Mental Health Institute of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Chinese National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder (Xiangya), Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
| | - Qiongni Chen Md
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, Republic of China
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Mental Health Institute of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Chinese National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder (Xiangya), Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
| | - Jincai Guo Md
- Department of Medical Technology, Changsha Stomatological Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
| | - Zubing Mei PhD
- Department of Anorectal Surgery, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, Republic of China
| | - Junhui Wang Md
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang Md
- Nursing Teaching and Research Institute, Medical College of Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, Guangxi Province, Republic of China
| | - Li He Md
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, Republic of China
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Mental Health Institute of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Chinese National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorder (Xiangya), Chinese National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, Hunan, Republic of China
| | - Yamin Li PhD
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, Republic of China
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Zemel R. A COVID-19 Call to Action: Psychological First Aid Training for Medical Professionals and Trainees. ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF DIRECTORS OF PSYCHIATRIC RESIDENCY TRAINING AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY 2022; 46:769-773. [PMID: 35585429 DOI: 10.1007/s40596-022-01645-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Zemel
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., USA.
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Krifa I, Hallez Q, van Zyl LE, Braham A, Sahli J, Ben Nasr S, Shankland R. Effectiveness of an online positive psychology intervention among Tunisian healthcare students on mental health and study engagement during the Covid-19 pandemic. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2021; 14:1228-1254. [PMID: 34939332 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Imen Krifa
- Mental illness Epidemiology Research Laboratory, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia.,Higher School of Sciences and Techniques of Health of Sousse, Department of Psychiatry LR12ES04, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Quentin Hallez
- Laboratory DIPHE, Department of Psychology, Education and Vulnerabilities, Université Lumière Lyon 2, Lyon, France
| | - Llewellyn Ellardus van Zyl
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences, University of Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands.,Optentia Research Unit, North-West University, South Africa.,Department of Human Resource Management, University of Twente, the Netherlands.,Department of Social Psychology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Amel Braham
- Mental illness Epidemiology Research Laboratory, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia.,Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Department of Psychiatry LR12ES04, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Jihene Sahli
- Laboratory of Research Quality of Care and Management of Maternal Health Services, Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Selma Ben Nasr
- Mental illness Epidemiology Research Laboratory, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia.,Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, Department of Psychiatry LR12ES04, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Rebecca Shankland
- Laboratory DIPHE, Department of Psychology, Education and Vulnerabilities, Université Lumière Lyon 2, Lyon, France
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Baker-Townsend J, Cummings C. Incorporating moral resilience into an undergraduate nursing program. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2020; 34:391-393. [PMID: 33032763 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Baker-Townsend
- University of North Florida, 1 UNF Drive - School Of Nursing, Jacksonville, FL 32224, United States.
| | - Cynthia Cummings
- University of North Florida, 1 UNF Drive - School Of Nursing, Jacksonville, FL 32224, United States.
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Crawford G, Burns S. Confidence and motivation to help those with a mental health problem: experiences from a study of nursing students completing mental health first aid (MHFA) training. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2020; 20:69. [PMID: 32143699 PMCID: PMC7059261 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-020-1983-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Those studying nursing are at greater risk for developing mental health problems than other tertiary students. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training may assist students to support peers and build mental health literacy. Understanding motivation to participate in training can identify factors influencing uptake and completion. This paper explores motivators for university nursing students to participate in MHFA training and uses previous experience and confidence in assisting someone with a mental health problem to triangulate data. METHOD A randomised controlled trial was employed to measure the impact of the course for nursing students at a large Western Australian university. An online survey was administered prior to MHFA training with undergraduate nursing students (n = 140). Thematic analysis of open-ended questions explores motivators to participate and help provided to an individual. Baseline frequencies describe demographics, confidence in helping and exposure to someone with a mental health problem. A Chi Square test compared confidence in helping and exposure to someone with a mental health problem. RESULTS More than half of participants reported contact with individuals experiencing mental health problems (55%; n = 77); approximately a third (35.8%) reported limited confidence to assist. Those in previous contact with someone with a mental health problem (71.5%; n = 55) were significantly more likely to feel confident in helping (p = 0.044). Mental health literacy, helping others, career and experiences were described as training motivators. CONCLUSION Exploiting motivators, both intrinsic and extrinsic may increase MHFA training uptake and completion. Tertiary institutions would benefit from policy to embed MHFA training into nursing degrees. The training may have utility for university degrees more broadly. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry; ACTRN12614000861651. Registered 11 August 2014 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Crawford
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, 6845 Western Australia
| | - Sharyn Burns
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, 6845 Western Australia
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Oliveira EBD, Zeitoune RCG, Gallasch CH, Pérez Júnior EF, Silva AVD, Souza TCD. Common mental disorders in nursing students of the professionalizing cycle. Rev Bras Enferm 2020; 73:e20180154. [DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2018-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objectives: to verify the suspicion of common mental disorders in nursing students of the professionalizing cycle and the association with sociodemographic features. Method: cross-sectional study with a sample of 85 students from a public university in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ) who responded to the Self-Report Questionnaire-20 and sociodemographic questions. Results: the suspicion prevalence of common mental disorders (CMD) in the sample was 55.3% and it was identified the association with the consumption of alcohol. Of the most frequent SRQ-20 complaints, 95.3% reported “feeling nervous, tense or worried”, 72.9% “having difficulty making decisions”, 60% “sleeping poorly” and 37.6% “having lost interest by things “. Conclusion: high prevalence of CMD in the sample and the association with the consumption of alcohol requires preventive and therapeutic actions among the students that minimize the possibility of severe mental disorders related to the consumption of alcohol and other drugs.
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Ashoorian D, Albrecht KL, Baxter C, Giftakis E, Clifford R, Greenwell-Barnden J, Wylde T. Evaluation of Mental Health First Aid skills in an Australian university population. Early Interv Psychiatry 2019; 13:1121-1128. [PMID: 30302916 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM University students have high rates of mental health problems; however, most delay or fail to seek help altogether. Tertiary settings can offer educational and social programmes to increase mental health awareness and in turn increase the number of students seeking help for their problems. This study aimed to explore students' and staffs' knowledge of mental health issues, confidence to intervene and application of skills following Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. METHODS Students and staff at an Australian university who had completed MHFA training in the previous 24 months were invited to complete a validated online questionnaire. RESULTS Of the 566 eligible participants, 107 (19%) completed the questionnaire. The majority (65%) had applied their skills to someone in need, with the highest number applying it to students. Notably, of those who had applied their skills 23 participants (33%) had applied them in a crisis situation, the most common being panic attacks followed by suicidal thoughts. Although most (98%) applied their skills in a face-to-face capacity, 53% also reported assisting someone via electronic mediums and social media. The mean score for the literacy test was considered high, 12/16 (SD = 1.7) for students and 13/16 (SD = 2.5) for staff. The majority (94%) reported more confidence in providing support following training. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that MHFA training on a university campus is associated with a high level of knowledge, confidence to intervene and apply MHFA skills to assist a student or friend in need, potentially impacting their long-term health outcomes and future professional careers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deena Ashoorian
- Pharmacy Division, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kristy-Lee Albrecht
- Pharmacy Division, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Casey Baxter
- Pharmacy Division, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Erin Giftakis
- Pharmacy Division, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rhonda Clifford
- Pharmacy Division, School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Tricia Wylde
- Health Promotion Unit, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Choudhry FR, Ming LC, Munawar K, Zaidi STR, Patel RP, Khan TM, Elmer S. Health Literacy Studies Conducted in Australia: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1112. [PMID: 30925706 PMCID: PMC6479782 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16071112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Health literacy (HL) is an essential component of various literacies mentioned in the field of health and education, including cultural, technological, media and scientific literacies. It is important for motivating higher consumer engagement. We aimed to review previous studies of HL in Australia to inform future studies, extend current knowledge and further enhance HL. Using search strings, a systematic search of four databases (i.e., MEDLINE; Embase; CINAHL and Eric) was carried out. A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) based search strategy led to identification of a total of N = 9696 records, that were further screened for inclusion in the review. The review findings were categorized into three major themes: (1) HL and health numeracy; (2) contrast of: knowledge deficiency, knowledge gained, problems of current health care system and (3) HL measurement methods and its domains. The findings from this scoping review show a dearth of measurement tools with sound psychometric properties for assessing HL. The findings also reveal low levels of HL in consumers which is in turn affecting health-related behaviors, utilization of health services and navigation of the health system. More recent developments have tried to integrate vital aspects, including introduction of applications to increase HL and exploring HL in Aboriginal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Riaz Choudhry
- National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan.
- Department of Psychology, Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 53100, Malaysia.
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Pharmacy, School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7005, Australia.
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University Perak, Ipoh 30250, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Khadeeja Munawar
- Department of Psychology, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Monash University, Sunway City 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Department of Psychology, University of Wah, Punjab 47000, Pakistan.
| | | | - Rahul P Patel
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Quest International University Perak, Ipoh 30250, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Tahir Mehmood Khan
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore 54700, Pakistan.
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Sunway City 45700, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Shandell Elmer
- School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston 7250, Australia.
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Saleh D, Camart N, Sbeira F, Romo L. Can we learn to manage stress? A randomized controlled trial carried out on university students. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0200997. [PMID: 30183710 PMCID: PMC6124718 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0200997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In our research, we examined the efficacy of an Internet-based stress management program. Our interest in evaluating this type of intervention is based on the increasing accessibility of the Internet today, the growth of Internet-based interventions for various psychopathological problems, and the observation that despite the prevalence of stress among university students, only a fraction of students ever seek professional help. Methodology: “I’m managing my stress” (“Je gère mon stresse”), an Internet-based self-help program composed of four sessions, was examined in this study. The aforementioned program is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and was inspired by the “Funambule” program in Quebec. Four questionnaires (Perceived Stress Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Scale of Satisfaction in Studies, and General Health Questionnaire) uploaded online were answered thrice: during “preintervention”, “postintervention”, and “follow-up” stages, the latter of which occurred three months after the intervention. The sample comprised 128 university students, with the majority being women (81.25%). The subjects were divided randomly into two groups (an experimental group and a control group that did not follow the program). Results: The self-esteem scores of the control group were significantly higher than those of the experimental group at the preintervention stage, but this difference disappeared at the postintervention and follow-up stages. There were also significantly lower scores on the General Health Questionnaire subfactors of somatic symptoms and anxiety/insomnia in the experimental group than in the control group during the postintervention stage, though no differences were observed before the intervention. These differences no longer remained after three months. ANOVA revealed significant effects of the intervention over time in the experimental group. Effects were observed at both the postintervention and follow-up stages for self-esteem, perceived stress, satisfaction in studies, and in the somatic symptoms, anxiety and insomnia and severe depression aspects of the General Health Questionnaire (Cohen’s d = 0.38 to 4.58). In contrast, no effects were observed in the control group. Conclusion: This type of Internet-based program has the ability to reach a large number of students due to its rather short format and accessibility. It has already shown improvements in terms of the levels of perceived stress, psychological distress and satisfaction with studies. The option of online interventions could appeal specifically to students who do not seek professional help. However, even though these results are promising at the postintervention stage, they are limited, as indicated by the lack of significant differences between the two groups after the initial three months of follow-up. We still, specifically, need to improve this intervention program and, generally, need more research to address the methodological problems raised by this type of intervention. Trial registration: ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN13709272
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Saleh
- EA4430 CLIPSYD, UFR SPSE, Paris Nanterre University, Nanterre, France
- Counseling Psychology, Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
- * E-mail:
| | - Nathalie Camart
- EA4430 CLIPSYD, UFR SPSE, Paris Nanterre University, Nanterre, France
| | - Fouad Sbeira
- Counseling Psychology, Tishreen University, Latakia, Syria
| | - Lucia Romo
- EA4430 CLIPSYD, UFR SPSE, Paris Nanterre University, Nanterre, France
- CMME, Centre Hospitalier Sainte Anne, Unité Inserm U864, CPN, Paris, France
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Liu W, Li YM, Peng Y. Mental health literacy: A cross-cultural study of American and Chinese bachelor of nursing students. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2018; 25:96-107. [PMID: 29139185 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Many nursing students have inadequate preparation for practice in mental health nursing in the United States and China. The concept of mental illness has different connotations in different cultures. Studies differ from country to country concerning the influence of nursing education on students' knowledge about and attitudes towards mental disorders. There is a lack of cross-cultural research that takes a broad perspective to explore how nursing students' knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders are influenced by the culture within education and healthcare systems. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Nursing students in the United States and China shared similar views on a broad range of intervention options including professional help, psychotropic medications and activity interventions for managing depression and schizophrenia. The major difference between the two nursing student groups was that the Chinese students showed more preference to occasional alcohol consumption and specialized therapies including cognitive-behavioural therapy and electroconvulsive therapy and the US students held less skepticism towards traditional and religious practices as possible treatment options for depression and schizophrenia. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: The Chinese nursing students need to be educated about safe alcohol consumption guidelines adopted by the National Health and Family Planning Commission. The US nursing students need to increase their awareness of national practice guidelines for managing mental disorders, particularly with respect to the use of specialized therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and electroconvulsive therapy. We support professional and psychosocial interventions in caring for patients with mental disorders. ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION Nursing students in the United States and China have reported inadequate preparedness for practice in mental health nursing. It is important to investigate nursing students' mental health literacy levels for a better understanding of their practice readiness in mental health field upon completion of their education. Aim This study was aimed at developing an understanding of American and Chinese nursing students' mental health literacy regarding the effectiveness of specific interventions for managing depression and schizophrenia. Method The "Australian National Mental Health Literacy Survey" was completed by a group of 310 nursing students including 152 Americans and 158 Chinese between April 2016 and April 2017 to compare students' rated intervention options on two provided vignettes. Results The two student groups reached consensus on many intervention options. However, the Chinese students showed more preference to occasional alcohol consumption and specialized therapies and the US students held less skepticism towards traditional practices as treatment options for depression and schizophrenia. Discussion and implications for practice The findings support professional and psychosocial interventions in caring for patients with mental disorders. There is a significant need for specific education on safe alcohol consumption guidelines for Chinese nursing students and clinical practice guidelines for managing mental disorders for American nursing students.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Liu
- Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
| | - Y-M Li
- Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Y Peng
- Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Abstract
School nurses address mental health issues of youth on a daily basis. These mental health issues include substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. Mental health first aid is a process that seeks to help medical professionals and laypeople recognize and address someone that is having a mental health or substance abuse crisis. This article will describe an experience with a student having suicidal ideations and how the mental health action plan was used.
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Chih HJ, Liang W. Effect of unaffordable medical need on distress level of family member: analyses of 1997-2013 United States National Health Interview Surveys. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:323. [PMID: 28865419 PMCID: PMC5581444 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1483-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced funding to public health care systems during economic downturns is a common phenomenon around the world. The effect of health care cost on family members of the patients has not been established. This paper aims to explore the relationship between affordability of health care and vulnerability of family members to distress levels. METHODS Data of a total of 262,843 participants were obtained from 17 waves (1997-2013) of the United States National Health Interview Survey. Multinomial logistic regression was used to investigate psychological distress level as a result of having family members who experienced unmet medical needs due to cost. RESULTS Among participants without family members who experienced unmet needs for medical care due to cost, risks of having 'moderate' (score of 5-12) or 'serious' (score of 13 or above) level of psychological distress were 1.0% and 11.5%, respectively. Risks of having 'moderate' or 'serious' level of psychological distress were 3.1% and 23.4%, respectively among participants with family members who experienced unmet needs. The adjusted relative risk ratio of 'moderate' and 'serious', as compared to 'normal' level of psychological distress, were 1.58 (95% confidence interval: 1.47-1.69) and 2.09 (95% confidence interval: 1.78-2.45) if one's family members experienced unmet medical needs. CONCLUSIONS Unmet medical needs due to cost increases risk of distress levels experienced by family members. Careful planning and adequate funding to public health care system could be implemented to prevent any unnecessary detrimental effect on mental health among family members of the unwell and any further increment of the prevalence of mental illnesses. This recommendation aligns with the World Health Organization Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Jun Chih
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
| | - Wenbin Liang
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0National Drug Research Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
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14
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Attygalle UR, Perera H, Jayamanne BDW. Mental health literacy in adolescents: ability to recognise problems, helpful interventions and outcomes. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2017; 11:38. [PMID: 28814972 PMCID: PMC5557470 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-017-0176-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although mental health literacy has been widely studied in adults, there are still relatively few studies on adolescent populations. In Sri Lanka, adolescents account for about one fifth of the population. Current evidence shows that most mental health problems diagnosed in adulthood begin in adolescence. There is also growing evidence that the trajectories of these disorders can be altered through early recognition and intervention. Although, help-seeking for mental health problems is known to be poor in adolescents, mental health literacy improves help-seeking. It is also known that adolescents may act as agents of change regarding mental health in their wider communities. Thus, mental health literacy in adolescents is an important aspect of community mental health initiatives. The objective of this study was to describe aspects of mental health literacy in terms of ability to recognise problems, helpful interventions, helpful referral options and outcomes in a target adolescent population in Sri Lanka. The association between socio economic variables and recognition of mental health problems was also examined. METHODS This descriptive cross sectional study used a pretested questionnaire on 1002 adolescents aged between 13 and 16, where mental health literacy was assessed using 4 case vignettes. The vignettes represented depression with suicidal ideation, social phobia, psychosis and diabetes, where the last was for comparison. RESULTS The response rates for recognition as a mental health problem was 82.2% (n = 824) for the vignette depicting depression, 68.7% (n = 689) for the psychosis vignette and 62.3% (n = 623) for the social phobia vignette. "Talking to the person", was responded to as helpful by 49.9% (n = 500), for the depression vignette followed by 49.8% (n = 499) for social phobia, 39.5% (n = 396) for psychosis and 19.5% (n = 195) for the diabetes vignette. The response rate for exercise being a helpful intervention was 25% (n = 251) for the diabetes vignette, followed by 21% (n = 210) for social phobia, 18.7% (n = 187) for psychosis vignette and 18.4% (n = 184) for the depression vignette. While 70.2% (n = 704) responded that there would be benefit in seeing a doctor for the diabetes vignette, the response rates for psychosis was 48.5% (n = 486), and for both depression and social phobia it was 48.2% (n = 483). The responses for the persons in the vignettes becoming better with treatment was 81.4% (n = 816) for the diabetes, 79.5% (n = 797) for depression, 75.6% (n = 758) for psychosis and 63.4% (n = 636) for the social phobia vignette. A statistically significant association was found between the income level of the family and appropriate recognition as mental health problems, for all the 3 mental health related vignettes. CONCLUSIONS The ability to recognise mental health problems, helpful interventions and outcomes in this population was comparable to those of adolescent populations in other countries, with some exceptions. The main differences were in relation to the identification and interventions in response to the psychosis and social phobia vignettes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hemamali Perera
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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15
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Seow LSE, Chua BY, Xie H, Wang J, Ong HL, Abdin E, Chong SA, Subramaniam M. Correct recognition and continuum belief of mental disorders in a nursing student population. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:289. [PMID: 28784095 PMCID: PMC5547490 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1447-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current study aimed to explore the correct recognition of mental disorders across dementia, alcohol abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia and depression, along with its correlates in a nursing student population. The belief in a continuum of symptoms from mental health to mental illness and its relationship with the non-identification of mental illness was also explored. METHODS Five hundred students from four nursing institutions in Singapore participated in this cross-sectional online study. Respondents were randomly assigned to a vignette describing one of the five mental disorders before being asked to identify what the person in the vignette is suffering from. Continuum belief was assessed by rating their agreeableness with the following statement: "Sometimes we all behave like X. It is just a question of how severe or obvious this condition is". RESULTS OCD had the highest correct recognition rate (86%), followed by depression (85%), dementia (77%), alcohol abuse (58%) and schizophrenia (46%). For continuum belief, the percentage of respondents who endorsed symptom continuity were 70% for depression, 61% for OCD, 58% for alcohol abuse, 56% for dementia and 46% for schizophrenia. Of concern, we found stronger continuum belief to be associated with the non-identification of mental illness after controlling for covariates. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to improve mental health literacy among nursing students. Almost a quarter of the respondents identified excessive alcohol drinking as depression, even though there was no indication of any mood symptom in the vignette on alcohol abuse. Further education and training in schizophrenia may need to be conducted. Healthcare trainees should also be made aware on the possible influence of belief in symptom continuity on one's tendency to under-attribute mental health symptoms as a mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Boon Yiang Chua
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Huiting Xie
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Nursing Administration, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jia Wang
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Nursing Administration, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hui Lin Ong
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Edimansyah Abdin
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Siow Ann Chong
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mythily Subramaniam
- 0000 0004 0469 9592grid.414752.1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, Singapore
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16
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Kelly J, Birks M. ‘ It's the simple things you do first that start the process of help ’: Undergraduate nursing and midwifery students’ experiences of the Mental Health First Aid course. Collegian 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colegn.2016.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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17
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Burns S, Crawford G, Hallett J, Hunt K, Chih HJ, Tilley PM. What's wrong with John? a randomised controlled trial of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training with nursing students. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:111. [PMID: 28335758 PMCID: PMC5364573 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1278-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of mental health problems have been found to be higher among university students compared to their non-student peers. Nursing students in particular face a range of additional stressors which may impact their undergraduate performance and their careers. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) aims to increase mental health literacy and to reduce stigma and may positively impact on the student population. This paper describes a MHFA randomised controlled trial targeting nursing students at a large Australian university. This study aimed to measure the impact of the MHFA course on mental health literacy, mental health first aid intentions, confidence in helping someone with a mental health problem and stigmatising attitudes including social distance. METHODS Participants were first year nursing students (n = 181) randomly allocated to the intervention (n = 92) or control (n = 89) group. Intervention group participants received the standardised MHFA course for nursing students. Online self-report questionnaires were completed at three time intervals: baseline (one week prior to the intervention: T1) (n = 140), post intervention (T2) (n = 120), and two months post intervention (T3) (n = 109). Measures included demographics, mental health knowledge, recognition of depression, confidence in helping, mental health first aid intentions and stigmatising attitudes including social distance. Repeated measures ANOVA was computed to measure if the impact of time (T1, T2, T3) and group (intervention and control) on the outcome variables. RESULTS There was a significant improvement among intervention compared to control group participants across the three time periods for knowledge scores (p < 0.001), confidence in helping (p < 0.001), mental health first aid intentions (p < 0.001), total personal stigma (p < 0.05), personal dangerous/unpredictable stigma (p < 0.05) and social distance (p < 0.05) scores. CONCLUSION MHFA is useful training to embed in university courses and has the potential to enhance mental health literacy and reduce stigmatising attitudes and social distance. While this course has particular salience for nursing and other health science students, there are broader benefits to the general university population that should be considered and opportunities accordingly explored for all students to complete the course. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12614000861651 . Retrospectively registered 11 August 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharyn Burns
- Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
| | - Gemma Crawford
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
| | - Jonathan Hallett
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
| | - Kristen Hunt
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
| | - Hui Jun Chih
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - P.J. Matt Tilley
- 0000 0004 0375 4078grid.1032.0Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845 Australia
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18
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Burns S, Jancey J, Crawford G, Hallett J, Portsmouth L, Longo J. A cross sectional evaluation of an alcohol intervention targeting young university students. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:610. [PMID: 27439308 PMCID: PMC4955165 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3314-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hazardous drinking has been found to be higher among young university students compared to their non-university peers. Although young university students are exposed to new and exciting experiences, including greater availability and emphasis on social functions involving alcohol there are few multi strategy comprehensive interventions aimed at reducing alcohol-related harms. Methods Random cross sectional online surveys were administered to 18–24 year old students studying at the main campus of a large metropolitan university in Perth, Western Australia. Prior to the completion of the second survey an alcohol intervention was implemented on campus. Completed surveys were received from 2465 (Baseline; T1) and 2422 (Post Year 1: T2) students. Students who consumed alcohol in the past 12 months were categorised as low risk or hazardous drinkers using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Due to the cross sectional nature of the two samples two-tailed two-proportion z-test and two sample t-tests were employed to determine statistical significance between the two time periods for categorical and continuous variables respectively. Results At T1 and T2 89.1 % and 87.2 % of the total sample reported drinking alcohol in the past month respectively. Hazardous levels of alcohol consumption reduced slightly between T1 (39.7 %) and T2 (38 %). In both time periods hazardous drinkers reported significantly higher mean scores for experienced harm, second-hand harm and witnessed harm scores compared to low risk drinkers (p <0.001). Hazardous drinkers were significantly more likely to experience academic problems due to their alcohol consumption and to report more positive alcohol expectations than low risk drinkers at both time periods (p <0.001). Conclusions Harms and problems for students who report hazardous drinking are of concern and efforts should be made to ensure integrated and targeted strategies reach higher risk students and focus on specific issues such as driving while intoxicated and alcohol related unplanned sexual activity. However there is also a need for universal strategies targeting all students and low risk drinkers as they too are exposed to alcohol harms within the drinking and social environment. Changing the culture of the university environment is a long term aim and to effect change a sustained combination of organisational actions, partnerships and educational actions is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharyn Burns
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
| | - Jonine Jancey
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia
| | - Gemma Crawford
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia
| | - Jonathan Hallett
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia
| | - Linda Portsmouth
- School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia
| | - Janelle Longo
- South Metropolitan Population Health Unit, Department of Health, PO Box 546, Fremantle, WA, 6959, Australia
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Ogorchukwu JM, Sekaran VC, Nair S, Ashok L. Mental Health Literacy Among Late Adolescents in South India: What They Know and What Attitudes Drive Them. Indian J Psychol Med 2016; 38:234-41. [PMID: 27335519 PMCID: PMC4904760 DOI: 10.4103/0253-7176.183092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early recognition of mental health problems gives an individual the opportunity for better long-term outcomes if intervention is initiated early. Mental health literacy is a related concept which is increasingly seen as an important measure of the awareness and knowledge of mental health disorders. AIM AND OBJECTIVES This study aimed at assessing the mental health literacy, help-seeking behavior and beliefs and attitudes related to mental illnesses among adolescents attending preuniversity colleges. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected preuniversity college students (n = 916). Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires. Data were computed using STATA. Analysis and interpretation were carried out using descriptives and Chi-square test. RESULTS Of the 916 respondents, 54.15% were male while 45.85% were female. The majority (78.60%) of the respondents ascribed to the Hindu religion, hailed largely from rural areas (57.21%) and were mostly studying in the 11(th) standard (72.49%). The percentage of mental health literacy among the respondents was very low, i.e., depression was identified by 29.04% and schizophrenia/psychosis was recognized by 1.31%. The study findings indicate that adolescents preferred reaching out more to informal sources including family members such as mothers than formal sources for self than for others indicating deeply prevalent stigmatizing attitudes toward mental health conditions. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for immediate improvement in the knowledge of adolescents on mental health literacy which suggests that programs need to be developed such that adolescents can seek help from valid resources if the need were to arise and have appropriate knowledge on whom to approach for help.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sreekumaran Nair
- Department of Biostatistics, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Lena Ashok
- Department of Public Health, Manipal University, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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