Protocol for a phase III wait-listed cluster randomised controlled trial of an intervention for mental well-being through enhancing mental health literacy and improving work friendliness in Hong Kong

Background: Mental health has long been recognised as a major global health issue. Some work-related characteristics have been identified to be associated with common mental health problems, and thus the workplace is an important venue for the prevention of mental health problems and promoting mental wellness. Burnout is one of the important aspects of workplace organisational stressors and, in recent years, the lack of mental health literacy has also been identified as a fundamental issue. Studies have demonstrated that an improvement in mental health literacy is an effective measure for enhancing mental well-being. It would be prudent to combine an organisation-directed component and the enhancement of mental health literacy in an intervention programme. This trial will examine the novel approach of an intervention aiming to provide an evidence-based prevention programme. Methods: This study utilised a wait-listed cluster randomised control trial design. Using branch offices as the primary sampling units, employees from three large companies in different industries will be recruited. Upon enrolment and after the baseline assessment of the outcome measures, participants nested in the branch offices will be allocated to the intervention or wait-listed arms. The intervention programme comprises of two main elements: an organisation-directed component and individual-directed psychoeducation training. This intervention will be delivered by a senior social worker well-versed in workplace issues over a period of 3 months. The trial will determine whether an integrated workplace mental health literacy and well-being programme is effective in increasing the mental health literacy scores and reducing burnout and stress scores, as measured by standardised and validated scales. Discussion: If the trial results are in line with the hypothesis that supports the efficacy of the intervention programme, this will provide an evidence-based approach for an effective workplace mental well-being intervention programme that could not only enhance the understanding of mental health issues, but also reduce work-related burnout and stress as well as increase workers' quality of life.