Delivery of mental health training across a College of Engineering

Mental health is of significant concern across College and University campuses. Within engineering, students have identified that they would be more likely to seek mental healthcare if referred by a student or faculty member. Therefore, this research to practice study aimed to encourage students to become advocates and referral agents for students in mental health distress. To accomplish this, engineering-specific mental health and wellness training was developed through the integration of quotes and data from engineering students, personalizing the training to the engineering experience. To reach nearly all engineering students (over 2,500 students), the 15-minute training was delivered in over 60 courses. The courses were selected such that nearly all students in all years of study received the training, and preference was given to courses taught by faculty who would: 1) Support integration of the training into their course, 2) Encourage a positive narrative around prioritizing mental health, and 3) Represent the demographics of students and faculty within each program. Three graduate students from Counseling Psychology were hired to schedule and deliver the training. Pre- and post-test data found that students' perceived knowledge about mental health resources and signs of a mental health concern increased. There was no change in intention to seek help. Moving forward, the training will be offered to all students on a yearly basis to 1) provide students with an up-to-date list of mental health resources on campus and 2) remind students of the importance of advocating for themselves and their peers.