A Mixed Methods Approach to Korean-Youth Mental Health First Aid (K-YMHFA): A Pilot Study

Korean immigrant families are growing in the Southern United States (U.S), an area where culturally specific resources can be limited. Korean immigrant families encounter distress in navigating the American culture, but cultural stigma impedes discussion within the family. An evidence-based mental health awareness program called Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) exists to serve as gatekeeper training for lay adults to identify and support youth experiencing mental health challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a culturally adapted Korean-YMHFA (K-YMHFA) program among Korean immigrants in the Southern U.S.

Using a mixed methods approach, a quantitative survey was distributed before and after program completion (N = 24), and a follow-up interview following program completion was also completed (N = 12). Quantitative analysis conducted a paired sample t-test, qualitative analysis conducted directed content analysis, and mixed methods analysis developed joint displays.

Participant's mental health literacy, confidence and control in YMHFA skills, and positive attitude toward YMHFA skills significantly increased, and stigma decreased after the training. Participants also provided information on specific steps for increasing cultural relevancy and sustainability within the community. Overall, mixed methods analysis indicated that the program was feasible in the context of Korean immigrants in the Southern U.S.

Despite the growing Korean community, the Southern U.S. has limited Korean ethnic services. With the feasibility of K-YMHFA, advocacy in promoting K-YMHFA is needed to counteract the limited resources while serving as an early intervention for youth and families in distress.