1478 - "THEY DON'T LOOK AT YOU AS A PERSON, THEY LOOK AT YOU AS A PROBLEM": ADOLESCENT PERSPECTIVES ON MENTAL-HEALTH HELP-SEEKING

Session: D06S003 - Child and Adolescent Mental Health 3
AUTHORS:
Golding Joanne (The University of Newcastle ~ Newcastle ~ Australia) , Freire Melissa (The University of Newcastle ~ Newcastle ~ Australia) , Gauld Cassandra (The University of Newcastle ~ Newcastle ~ Australia) , Liddell Belinda (The University of Newcastle ~ Newcastle ~ Australia)
Abstract text:
Introduction


Mental health problems are prevalent in adolescence, yet one in three adolescents do not seek help. There is a dearth of research on adolescent help-seeking that incorporates perspectives from adolescents themselves. It is important to understand adolescent beliefs about mental health help-seeking to promote service uptake and earlier intervention for mental health problems.


Purpose


This study investigates adolescents' underlying beliefs about mental health help-seeking.


Method


We conducted focus groups at high schools with adolescents aged 14-18 years old. Using the Theory of Plan Behaviour (Ajzen, 1991), focus group discussions explored attitudes, subjective norms and control beliefs regarding mental health help-seeking. We also sought to understand perspectives on mental health intervention preferences. Qualitative data was analysed thematically, using NVivo, to identify perceived barriers and facilitators to mental health help-seeking.


Results


Several core themes emerged. Exploration of attitudes towards mental health help-seeking suggested that mental health literacy, stigma and gender roles were key factors that would influence help-seeking. Approval from family and friends was viewed as a strong facilitator of mental health help-seeking, with approval of parents being particularly important. Negative consequences to seeking help (e.g. dismissal, judgment, confidentiality breach) were viewed as prohibitive to help-seeking. Control belief themes relating to autonomy and mental health literacy were deemed to facilitate mental health help-seeking, however a perceived lack of control over practical aspects such as transport or financial resources were seen to preclude access to professional services, particularly in the absence of parental support. Adolescent preferences for interventions involved relatability, anonymity, online delivery, peer design and/or leadership.


Conclusions


Understanding adolescent underlying beliefs about mental health help-seeking is crucial to improving access to mental health services and promoting earlier intervention. These findings provide valuable adolescent perspectives on barriers and facilitators to mental health help-seeking.