title: Feasibility of disaster mental health preparedness training for black communities.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To test the feasibility of developing evidence-based mental health training to build capacity to respond to natural disasters in black communities and the adaptation of a train-the-trainer (TTT) model for black community leaders and clinical providers in distressed areas at risk of natural disasters.
  
  
  METHODS
  A core curriculum was developed based on a training needs assessment and resource review. Participants were recruited using network sampling in eastern North Carolina. The core curriculum was tested for usability, revised, and then pilot tested among five mental health providers. Three of the five were trained to lead one-day workshops tailored for black community leaders and clinical providers. Process data were collected, and workshop participants completed posttraining knowledge tests, evaluation forms, and debriefing focus groups.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Ten providers and 13 community leaders pilot tested the training. Posttest knowledge scores were generally higher among clinical providers. Perceived effectiveness of training was higher among community-based organization leaders than clinical providers. Evaluations indicated that the workshop components were culturally relevant and well received by all participants. We identified ways to facilitate recruitment, provide optional e-learning, evaluate effectiveness, and extend trainer support in future field trials.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The curriculum and TTT model provide culturally competent disaster mental health preparedness training for black communities.
authors: HERMES, LLC, Wilmington, North Carolina.
authors: Danielle J
authors: DJ
authors: Laborde
authors: Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.
authors: Kathryn
authors: K
authors: Magruder
authors: Department of Social Work, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
authors: Joanne
authors: J
authors: Caye
authors: North Carolina Central University, Durham.
authors: Theodore
authors: T
authors: Parrish
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology*; D057191:Capacity Building; D003479:Curriculum; D004189:Disaster Planning; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services; D008875:Middle Aged; D009657:North Carolina; D000078329:Workforce