Beyond Teen Angst: Improving Mental Health Literacy for Middle School Students (2016)
Undergraduate: Hannah Love
Faculty Advisor: Patrick Akos
Department: Public Policy
Previous research has noted low levels of mental health literacy among middle school students . This research project seeks to examine several key issues regarding mental health literacy in middle school students: 1) the current state of mental health literacy among middle school students, 2) current programs and practices used to increase the mental health literacy of middle school students, and 3) the results of these programs and practices. Previous research has noted low levels of mental health literacy among middle school students. In-school mental health curricula have consistently led to an immediate increase in student knowledge of mental illness and mental health resources, as well as a decrease in mental illness stigma. Still, further research should be done to determine how successful these programs are in changing attitudes and long-term behaviors in students .Upon review of previous research, I recommend that North Carolina integrate a comprehensive mental health unit into current middle school health curricula. This unit should focus on improving mental health literacy (knowledge of mental health and related resources), as well as attitudes towards mental health and mental illness.