Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Project – Full Written

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Committee Chair

Charlotte Stephens

Abstract

Mental health issues impact one in five adults in the United States; however, many individuals lack the requisite knowledge and skills to effectively respond to mental health crises. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training empowers individuals to recognize and address mental health concerns, thereby fostering early intervention and support. This review analyses the efficacy of MHFA training, best practices for its implementation, and its influence on mental health outcomes. Empirical evidence indicates that MHFA training enhances mental health literacy, diminishes stigma, and encourages supportive behaviors. Customized approaches for targeted populations, such as youth and older adults, have also shown significant promise. Recommended best practices include experiential learning, peer support, and ongoing training initiatives. As MHFA training expands globally, cultural adaptation and sensitivity are essential for effective application. This review underscores the potential of MHFA training to improve mental health literacy, promote supportive actions, and ultimately enhance mental health outcomes. The broad adoption of MHFA training can help bridge the mental health knowledge gap and cultivate a supportive, understanding culture. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to mental health crises, MHFA training can contribute to reducing stigma associated with mental illness and facilitating early intervention. As the body of evidence supporting MHFA training continues to grow, it is imperative to explore methods to sustain and broaden its reach, especially within diverse and underserved communities. This review aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on mental health and the role of MHFA training in fostering mental health literacy and support.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

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