National mixed methods evaluation of Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid

Abstract

ObjectiveMental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an international, early intervention, public education program that teaches participants to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. Until now, all evaluations on MHFA courses in the United States have been performed externally, which have limits in generalizability and the ability to address insights in a timely manner. Additionally, few evaluations have assessed the newest versions of MHFA courses. Therefore, this evaluation aimed to understand key outcomes and participant responses to Adult and Youth MHFA courses in a nationwide sample, spanning nearly a year of real-world implementation. MethodsAn internal, mixed methods program evaluation was performed on the second edition of the in-person versions of Adult and Youth MHFA. Pre- and post-course evaluation data from 3,586 Adult and 2,314 Youth MHFA participants trained between October 2022 and July 2023 were used in this evaluation. Key quantitative constructs, such as mental health literacy, intentions to perform MHFA skills, and confidence to use MHFA skills, were analyzed using paired sample t tests. Rapid thematic analysis methods were used to analyze participants' qualitative responses to the course. ResultsSignificant increases in mental health literacy, intentions, and confidence were observed in both Adult and Youth MHFA participants from pre- to post-course. Qualitative analyses revealed key themes in participant responses, including the helpfulness of the activities, materials, and the MHFA action plan. Adjustments to materials, the length or pace of the course, and other specifics were noted as opportunities for improvement. These findings will be used to inform the future practice, implementation, and revisions of MHFA. ConclusionCompletion of Adult or Youth MHFA by adults in the United States led to improvements in mental health literacy and intentions and confidence to assist someone in need. Both programs may benefit from implementation and content-related changes to enhance participant experience.