Research & Evidence
The MHFA program has been extensively researched worldwide and proven effective in improving knowledge, attitudes, and helping behavior.
27+
Countries Worldwide
6M+
People Trained
200+
Published Studies
25
Years of Evidence
What Does the Research Show?
Research consistently shows that MHFA training improves knowledge, reduces stigma, and increases confidence in helping others experiencing mental health challenges.
Educational Settings
Research shows that MHFA training for teachers and school staff significantly improves their ability to identify and support students in distress.
- Jorm et al. (2010) - Teacher training: A cluster randomized trial
- Hart et al. (2018) - Teaching MHFA in school settings
- Ma et al. (2022) - School-based interventions to reduce stigma
Workplace
Randomized controlled trials have proven that workplace MHFA training improves peer support and reduces mental health stigma.
- Kitchener & Jorm (2004) - MHFA training in workplace settings
- Reavley et al. (2018) - Effectiveness of eLearning and blended delivery
- Bell et al. (2018) - Evidence review for health and safety at work
Health Professionals
Training medical and nursing students in MHFA improves their ability to care for patients with mental health problems.
- Bond et al. (2015) - Training for medical and nursing students
- Davies et al. (2018) - Pilot eLearning randomized trial
- Traylor et al. (2025) - Integrating MHFA into medical education
Communities
Studies in rural and urban communities show positive impact on mental health literacy and social support.
- Jorm et al. (2004) - Training in rural areas
- Sartore et al. (2008) - Drought-affected communities
- Forthal et al. (2021) - Systematic review of outcomes
Military & Emergency Services
MHFA has been successfully adapted for armed forces and their families, as well as emergency service personnel.
- Crone et al. (2020) - MHFA for UK Armed Forces
- Evans et al. (2021) - Training for veteran families
- Mohatt et al. (2017) - Military MHFA development
International Research
MHFA has been successfully researched in over 27 countries with local cultural adaptations.
- Jorm et al. (2019) - Lessons from global spread
- Svensson & Hansson (2014) - Effectiveness in Sweden
- Jensen et al. (2016) - Randomized trial in Denmark
Key Findings from Meta-Analyses
Improved Knowledge
Participants demonstrate significant improvement in mental health knowledge and understanding of common mental health problems.
Reduced Stigma
Training reduces stigmatizing attitudes toward people with mental health problems.
Increased Confidence
Trained individuals feel more confident in their ability to help others in mental health distress.
Supportive Behavior
Participants are more likely to reach out and help people experiencing mental health difficulties.
Key Sources
-
Morgan et al. (2018)
Systematic review and meta-analysis: Effects on knowledge, stigma, and helping behavior -
Hadlaczky et al. (2014)
MHFA is an effective public health intervention - Meta-analysis -
Kitchener & Jorm (2006)
Review of MHFA training evaluation studies -
Maslowski et al. (2019)
Effectiveness of Mental Health First Aid: A meta-analysis
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