This study examines the effectiveness of a school based mental health literacy intervention for high school students, on improving mental health knowledge and reducing stigma. Twenty-four high schools in the regional area of Ottawa, Canada were randomly assigned to either the curriculum or control condition at a two to one ratio. The educational curriculum was integrated within grade 11 and 12 Provincial "Healthy Living" courses, delivered by teachers, and replaced existing educational content on mental health.
There is limited evidence and consensus on the effectiveness of school-based mental health educational programs, and no standardization for mental health education being taught in schools. This study examines the effectiveness of a school-based mental health literacy intervention for adolescents, on knowledge and stigma. A secondary objective was to determine the generalizability and applicability of an educational resource for mental health in high schools.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
534
A mental health educational resource delivered in the classroom by trained educators
An online mental health education module that students access individually
Self-Report Knowledge of Mental Illness Scale
15 multiple choice questions about mental illness computed to provide a total score of mental health knowledge for each participant
Time frame: Immediately following completed delivery of The Curriculum Guide
Self-Report Attitudes Towards Mental Illness Scale
A Likert scale of 8 statements about characteristics of individuals with mental illness computed to provide a total score of positive attitudes towards mental illness for each participant
Time frame: Immediately following completed delivery of The Curriculum Guide
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.