Evaluation of an online training course for educational professionals on depression and mental health in childhood and adolescence

Abstract Background: The rising rates in depression and other mental health problems among adolescents in recent years, combined with delayed help-seeking, highlights a clear need for action in key areas of adolescents’ lives. The school environment, including teachers, can provide mental-health support for children and adolescents. Methods: The study used a pre-post-follow-up design to investigate whether a two-hour online training course on depression and mental health in childhood and adolescence leads to knowledge acquisition, confidence in dealing with pupils with depression and a decrease in stigmatisation in N=97 teachers, school social workers and school social pedagogues. Results: We found a significant increase in knowledge and confidence in dealing with pupils with depression at post-assessment, which was maintained at a four-week follow-up. A decrease in stigmatisation was found at post-assessment, which was no longer evident at follow-up. Conclusion: The results suggest that approaching educational professionals through a concise practical online training course can be a promising strategy for knowledge transfer and that such trainings may be adapted to other mental health disorders. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT06387108. Registered on 24.04.24.