736. A Youth–Adult Partnership Mental Health Literacy Intervention Led by Medical Students for Hong Kong Adolescents: A School-Based Mixed-Methods Evaluation

Abstract

Abstract Background Youth aged 15–24 years represent a critical developmental window for the onset of mental disorders, yet symptoms are frequently unrecognised and untreated. Mental disorders contribute substantially to the global disease burden in this age group, including depression and suicidality. . Mental health literacy is a modifiable determinant of stigma, symptom recognition, and help-seeking. Schools are key settings for universal prevention, and Youth–Adult Partnership (Y-AP) approaches may enhance engagement through near-peer delivery. Aims & Objectives This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of a Youth–Adult Partnership mental health literacy workshop for secondary school students in Hong Kong. Method A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted of a 9-hour, 3-week mental health literacy programs (WeChildrenCare). Participants were secondary school students aged 13-17 from ten dedicated secondary schools in Hong Kong. Qualitative feedback was analysed thematically, and implementation outcomes were examined using RE-AIM–informed principles. Results The Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire–Short Version for Young Adults increased significantly from baseline to post-intervention (Δ = +2.34, p < .001), with partial maintenance at follow-up (Δ = +1.47, p = .092). Significant improvements were observed in knowledge of mental health problems (Δ = +1.40, p < .001), help-seeking behaviours (Δ = +0.30 to +0.40, p < .001), and stigma-related attitudes (Δ = +0.19, p = .001). Self-help strategies showed short-term gains, while erroneous beliefs did not change significantly. Qualitative findings indicated strong engagement with near-peer facilitators and perceived relevance of youth-led discussions. Implementation evaluation supported feasibility and acceptability, with scheduling constraints as the primary challenge. Discussion & Conclusions This evaluation provides preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility and acceptability of a Youth–Adult Partnership mental health literacy workshop for Hong Kong secondary school students. Baseline findings underscore persistent gaps in mental health literacy and stigma, reinforcing the need for universal, school-based approaches. Near-peer facilitation appears to be a key engagement mechanism, aligning with WHO youth engagement principles and local policy priorities. While limited by short follow-up and self-report measures, the programme shows promise as a scalable, youth-centred prevention strategy within the local youth mental health ecosystem.self-report measures, the programme shows promise as a scalable, youth-centred prevention strategy within the local mental health ecosystem.