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

Saffenreuther, Ann-Kathrin; Greimel, Ellen; Primbs, Regine; Iglhaut, Lucia; Kaubisch, Sara; Schulte-Körne, Gerd; Feldmann, Lisa (2025): Evaluation of an online training course for educational professionals on depression and mental health in childhood and adolescence. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 20: 8. ISSN 1753-2000

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 supporting 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 supporting 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. Future studies could examine whether such trainings can be adapted to other mental health disorders.

• Doc-Type: Article (LMU Hospital)
• Organisational unit (Faculties): 07 Medicine > Medical Center of the University of Munich > Clinic and Polyclinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy
• DFG subject classification of scientific disciplines: Life sciences
• DFG: Funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) - 491502892