Educator mental health literacy: A programme evaluation of the teacher training education on the mental health & high school curriculum guide

Mental disorders make up close to one-third of the global burden of disease experienced during adolescence. Schools can play an important role in the promotion of positive mental health as well as an integral role in the pathways into mental health care for adolescents. In order for schools to effectively address the mental health problems of their students, educators must improve their mental health literacy. The current study examines the impact of an educator training programme designed to support educators in the delivery of a high school mental health curriculum within their classrooms, such as health class. Specifically, a paired-samples t test was used to examine the change in educators' knowledge and attitudes regarding mental health following their participation in this educator training. Eighty-three educators participated in the training, and survey data from 79 were included in the final analysis. Structured feedback on the training was obtained. Significant increases in both knowledge and attitudes scores were demonstrated. The training sessions were highly rated. Findings from this report demonstrate the potential value of mental health literacy training to improve the mental health knowledge and attitudes of educators. Improved educator knowledge and attitudes may be necessary in order for schools to provide effective mental health promotion and prevention programming.