Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate a training program designed to improve mental health literacy in junior sporting club coaches and leaders. It was anticipated that participants would demonstrate an improvement in knowledge, confidence, and attitudes in relation to mental disorders and help seeking.
Methods: A training program called Read the Play was delivered to 40 participants from junior AFL football and netball leagues in the Barwon region of Victoria. The effects of the training were evaluated using pre- and post-questionnaires.
Results: The course led to significant improvement in knowledge about mental disorders, increased confidence in helping someone with a mental disorder and more positive attitudes towards people with mental disorders.
Conclusions: Training programs delivered within sporting settings may be effective in improving mental health literacy. Future evaluations would benefit from assessing whether these changes are sustained over time and whether trainees subsequently assist young club members to seek appropriate professional help.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Claire Kelly and Hok Pan Yuen had input into the questionnaire content. Simon Dodd, Alison McRoberts, Betty Kitchener and Chris Scanlan provided assistance with developing the training. Kathryn Junor, Alison Davies and Bernie Cram developed the design elements. The Read the Play steering committee supported all aspects of the development, implementation and evaluation of the training. Minor funding and in kind support was provided by Bendigo Bank, On Demand Printing, Essendon Football Club, Mortimer Petroleum, Buckley's Entertainment Centre, Leopold Sporting Centre and Promote It Major funding was provided by Kempe, Geelong. Kids Helpline provided support and endorsement for the program