Mental health first aid USA implementation: Trainee reported quality and impact of training

Abstract

This study investigated the association of training implementation factors (Quality, Impact, Usefulness) with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)-targeted outcomes (e.g., increased knowledge, confidence helping someone). Trainees who completed MHFA USA training in 2016 (N = 1003) were surveyed post training about its influence on their thoughts and behaviors, and about implementation factors. Some trainees completed 3- and 6-month follow-ups (N = 430, N = 276, respectively). Training Quality, Impact and Usefulness were rated highly. Differences in Quality and Impact across demographic groups were found; trainees from racially and ethnically marginalized backgrounds, and trainees with lower education levels, reported greater effect. Quality and Impact predicted positive changes in MHFA-targeted constructs such as self-efficacy, stigma and trainee perceived positive effect of MHFA strategies for those in crisis. Impact predicted positive change in mental health knowledge; this association strengthened over time. Results provide information about acceptability and perceived Impact of MHFA USA training and lead to recommendations for future evaluation and implementation.

Keywords: implementation; mental health first aid; mental health training; perceived impact.