فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

CONTEXT: The knowledge about mental health problems among the general public is comparativelyquite low. The pilot study was conducted with an aim to increase the knowledge of the day‑to‑daymental health problems which people can have among the mass.AIMS: The aims of this study are (1) to assess the knowledge and attitude about mental healthproblems of the selected sample and (2) to build the capacity in providing first aid for mental healthto the selected sample through training.SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A cross‑sectional study was used in assessing the knowledge and skillsof the participants of the first aid for mental health problems. It was conducted in the institute itself.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 89 participants were taken to participate in the cross‑sectionalstudy. Using a semi‑structured self‑administered questionnaire, a brief training, and a feedback form,capacity building for first aid for mental health problems was provided.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics.RESULTS: The capacity building program for first aid for mental health problems appears to beeffective in improving the knowledge and attitude with regard to the mental health problems. Thefindings from the program indicated lack of knowledge in understanding of mental health, knowledge ofcausation, and treatment of mental health problems. Feedback of the training program indicated that itimproved the ability of the participants in recognizing persons undergoing mental health problems andbrought about a change in their beliefs about mental health, attitudes, and need for prompt referral.CONCLUSIONS: The program was successful in increasing the confidence of the participants inproviding help to someone with a mental health problem and referring to appropriate mental healthprofessional. This shows that there is an immediate need for empowering general public withknowledge and skills to provide support to people with mental health problems.