From Evidence to Action: Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being in Higher Education through Research and Mental Health First Aid

Abstract

This presentation outlines the integration of research findings and the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training cycle within the "vagar(mente)" program in Higher Education. Study 1 characterized the well-being of 322 students, revealing a consistent decline in mental health across academic years and significant gender differences (women reported higher burnout). Study 2 evaluated the MHFA training, which was rated highly for its utility in promoting mental health literacy and community resilience. The research underscores the urgent need for evidence-based, gender- and phase-adapted interventions to support the increasingly vulnerable student population.