Positive effects of psychoeducation on mental disorders in the Netherlands

BACKGROUND Mental Health First Aid (mhfa) is a psychoeducation program designed to recognize mental health problems in others, to approach and support them and to refer them to appropriate help. AIM: To discuss the possible contribution that mhfa can make to the early detection, intervention and destigmatization of mental health problems in the Netherlands. METHOD: Description of the characteristics, effectiveness and knowledge gaps of mhfa in the Dutch context based on literature and practice. RESULTS: Positive experiences abroad suggest that mhfa can also contribute to early detection, intervention and destigmatization of mental disorders in the Netherlands. Optimization of the program on the local context is important here. CONCLUSION: Dutch evaluation- and effect studies are needed to determine whether the positive effects from international research also apply in the Netherlands, whether adults and young people receive early and adequate help thanks to mhfa, and how the stigma surrounding mental disorders can be further reduced.