Mental Health Curriculum for Student Health Professionals
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental illness affects tens of millions of people every year, but it is estimated that only half of them receive treatment.
“So often in training, we only see people in stages of acute decompensation, and we know from stigma research that contact with individuals in recovery is vital to reduce stigma and foster empathy.” Anne Hallward, MD, psychiatrist
With the support of the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation, Hallward and her team at Safe Space Radio developed and are sharing with the medical education community 11 educational podcasts on difficult to discuss subjects that impact mental health.
The podcasts feature patients describing their experiences with mental health challenges and recovery as well as stories from family members and expert reflection. Each podcast includes learning objectives, discussion questions, and links to additional resources.
Academic Psychiatry recently published a study of these podcasts, supporting their use in mental health training to foster empathy and reduce stigma among students in the health professions.
“Listening to these stories makes a difference in how students identify with their patients and increases student confidence about initiating open and challenging conversations,” Hallward said.
Links to the educational materials and the research article demonstrating student impact are available to members in the Digital Learning Hub.
Find out how you can share your curriculum in the PAEA Digital Learning Hub. Email Learning@PAEAonline.org for questions or assistance.
