Ariel Hargrave, Weber State University
Psychology
A review of the literature surrounding mental health literacy has suggested that there are many misconceptions about those with a mental illness. These misconceptions effect help-seeking, treatment, mental health policies, early intervention and social support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a peer-to-peer taught class called Building Recovery of Individual Dreams and Goals through Education and Support (BRIDGES). This class addresses these misconceptions and aims to educate those suffering with mental illness on how to self-advocate. Research suggests that a peer-to-peer approach has been found useful in a consumer’s recovery process. Support and education are crucial in society’s understanding of mental illness and aids in their ability to strive towards a stigma free environment. The objective of this study is to measure the effectiveness of this class by conducting a pre and post assessment at the beginning of the class before material is presented and at the end of the class. A population of approximately 100 participants over the age of 18 diagnosed with a mental illness will be used. The assessment includes eleven total questions that identify key factors to recovery and mental health literacy. A five point likert scale will be used to measure participant’s responses. Data will be collected starting in January of 2013 and will be completed in March of 2013. Data will then be analyzed using a T-test in SPSS.