The Effects of a Mental Health Literacy Enhancement Program among Older Adults at Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital, Mueang District, Suphan Buri Province

Abstract

Introduction: Enhancing mental health literacy is an important tool that enables older adults to manage mental health in an aging society. However, there is a current lack of targeted and systematic programs designed to support this population.

Research objectives: To examine the effectiveness of a mental health literacy enhancement program on the mental health literacy of older adults.

Research methodology: This study employed a quasi-experimental two-group pretest–posttest design. The sample consisted of 60 older adults receiving services at Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals, Mueang District, Suphan Buri Province, equally divided into an experimental group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). The research instruments included a demographic form, a mental health literacy assessment tool (Index of Item Objective Congruence = 1.00; Cronbach's alpha = .79), and a mental health literacy enhancement program consisting of eight structured activities implemented over four weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, and paired t-test, with statistical significance set at p < .05.

Results: Post-intervention, mental health literacy scores, within the experimental group, post-test scores were significantly higher than pre-test scores (t = -10.89, p < .001). Post-intervention, mental health literacy scores were significantly higher in the experimental group compared to the control group (t = 5.00, p < .001).

Conclusions: The mental health literacy enhancement program improves mental health literacy, equipping older adults to manage their mental well-being.

Implications: The mental health literacy enhancement program should be implemented in community settings and primary care services to systematically develop older adults’ skills in recognizing mental health issues and accessing appropriate services.