Impact of a Mental Health Curriculum for High School Students on Knowledge and Stigma

Youth Mental Health Awareness Study and Early Intervention Research Project

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.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Students enrolled in the Healthy Living course of participating Ottawa area community high schools.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Students not enrolled in the Healthy Living course of participating Ottawa area community high schools.
• Students with an English reading and comprehension level lower than the sixth grade