In recent years, the number of employees suffering from mental health problems such as depression in the workplace is increasing, and there are cases where employees take leave or retire, so countermeasures are an urgent issue.
In mental illness such as depression, it is rare to complain by yourself, especially in the early stages, due to lack of knowledge and prejudice.In addition, since it is difficult for people around them to speak to them, consultations tend to be delayed, increasing the risk of chronicity, intractability, and even suicide.
On the other hand, internationally, the education and training program "Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)" developed in Australia to learn "first aid for the mind" is widespread.A 12-hour program that includes lectures, small group discussions, role-plays, and more to help people with mental health problems learn specific ways to deal with people close to them, such as family, friends, and colleagues. can.
This time, a research team led by Kyushu University and Iwate Medical University has independently developed a two-hour education and training program that is easy for general company employees, especially busy employees, to take based on the essence of MHFA for depressed patients. ..Knowledge to properly engage with colleagues and subordinates with mental health problems through scenario role play exercises consisting of superiors and employees with mental health problems, in addition to lectures to gain knowledge about depression. And skills are acquired practically.
When this program was conducted as a pilot test, the results of the questionnaires of the participants showed that the skills for dealing with the sick and the self-confidence in dealing with the sick were improved, indicating that the program may be effective. ..
The widespread use of this program is expected to lead to early detection and treatment of depression in the workplace.
Paper information:[PLOS ONE] Development of MHFA-based 2-h educational program for early intervention in depression among office workers: A single-arm pilot trial
