Outcomes of Implementing Adult Mental Health First Aid in Predominantly Black Churches in Philadelphia

Objectives: This study assessed the impact of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training on self-reported mental health knowledge, referral intentions, and behavior changes among adults in Black churches in Philadelphia. Methods: A pre-/posttest single-group design was used. Surveys were administered 2 weeks before, immediately after, and 3 and 6 months postintervention. Participants from Black churches in Philadelphia completed virtual MHFA training. Surveys measured self-reported comfort recognizing mental health challenges, likelihood of making referrals, and referral behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, general linear model – analysis of variance, and Chi-squared tests. Results: Twenty-nine participants completed MHFA training. Self-reported comfort in recognizing mental health challenges significantly increased immediately posttraining and at follow-ups, with sustained improvement in recognizing trauma from baseline ( M = 2.76) to 6 months ( M = 3.78; P = 0.013). Referral intentions showed no significant changes, and lower 6-month response rates limited referral rate analysis. Conclusions: MHFA training effectively improved mental health knowledge and referral behaviors among Black church members in Philadelphia. The findings suggest the need for booster trainings to sustain knowledge gains over time. This study underscores MHFA’s potential in enhancing mental health support in Black church communities and highlights the importance of continued research on the long-term impact of such interventions.