Case Study: Fraternity Uses Mental Health Training to Create a More Supportive Brotherhood

Chi Psi fraternity — a national Greek organization with approximately 1,500 members across 32 chapters — recognized an opportunity to holistically educate young men on mental health issues after interviewing hundreds of chapter members as part of a self-assessment.
In 2018, the organization introduced Kognito’s At-Risk simulation, an interactive learning experience for students that equips them with the skills to support their emotional health and that of their peers. After receiving positive feedback and seeing good outcomes from the training, Chi Psi now requires all new members to complete the training each year.

Continue reading some highlights below, or download the case study for more details about how Chi Psi is helping create a more supportive brotherhood.

Why is Mental Health Training Needed in Fraternities?

Mental health concerns are high among college students. It’s a unique time in most students’ lives. In addition to the stress of schoolwork, they also are taking on more adult-like responsibilities without having reached the cognitive maturity of adulthood.

The good news is that mental health stigma is decreasing, but it’s still high among young men and can be a barrier to mental health treatment. According to the American Psychological Association, 31% of men suffer from a period of depression during their lives. However, only one in four speak to a mental health professional about these feelings.

Fraternities are in a unique position to reach young men and help them gain life-long skills related to mental health.

How Effective was Kognito’s At-Risk?

Between July 1, 2018 and May 25, 2021, Chi Psi fraternity had over a 95% completion rate. Of those who completed the simulation:

• 91% rated the training good to excellent.
• 80% would recommend the training to fellow students.
• 80% indicated that the training was based on scenarios relevant to them.

Based on post-simulation surveys, Kognito’s At-Risk simulation also led to positive outcomes including:

• Improved preparedness
• Increased confidence in helping themselves and others
• Decreased stigma
• More supportive actions

The fact that the fraternity has achieved close to a 100% completion rate is outstanding, but what is even more encouraging is that members are using skills learned in the simulation in their real lives. According to follow-up surveys, there was a 37% increase in the number of students approached to discuss concerns,

“I was able to use the same techniques used in the final animation and was able to convince a fellow student to seek help with the counseling center.” – Chi Psi member

Download the Case Study

To learn more about how Chi Psi implemented Kognito’s At-Risk, and the positive outcomes related to the organization’s mental health initiatives, download the free case study here.