Effectiveness of mental health first aid training for underserved Latinx and Asian American immigrant communities

Abstract Introduction Community collaboration is essential to achieving integrated care and improving mental health among immigrants in the United States This uncontrolled pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) USA training program when administrated to advocates who serve Latinx and Asian American immigrant communities, with the goal of creating frontline workers to help immigrants with mental health challenges. Methods A total of 89 participants completed the 8-h MHFA training program. Assessments were conducted before and after the program to measure the impact of MHFA training. Both qualitative and quantitative assessments were used, including the Mental Health Literacy Scale and the Opening Minds Scale for Healthcare Providers. Results The findings revealed a significant improvement in participants’ mental health literacy and anti-stigma levels, following the training. In addition, participants expressed more positive attitudes toward people with mental illness and held less-extreme views of social distance from them. Conclusion Through this interactive training, participants built new knowledge, skills, and confidence to apply to their work of assisting community members who may be at risk of developing mental health or substance abuse problems.