Mental Health Literacy and Help-Seeking Behaviours Among Undergraduate Pharmacy Students in Abha, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The serious mental health problems experienced by university students could have a negative impact on their long-term mental, social and physical health as well as their academic achievements. The ability to recognise a condition, and knowledge about mental health issues and sources of help, are among the factors influencing help-seeking behaviour in young individuals. This study was conducted to examine the mental health literacy among undergraduate pharmacy students and to assess whether mental health literacy is linked to a stronger intention to seek help. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study used an online self-administered questionnaire. A total of 271 pharmacy students at King Khalid University completed the questionnaire and agreed to participate in the study. Results: The mental health literacy in the current study ( M =112.53) was found to be lower than that reported in international research using the MHLS. Students with no history of mental health issues scored significantly higher in help-seeking behaviours from informal sources ( M =23.65, SD=6.88) than those with a previous history ( M =19.03, SD=7.58), F (1, 269)=11.76, p =0.001. The study revealed a significant positive correlation between mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviours r (271)=0.26, p < 0.01. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that there is a positive correlation between mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviours. Implementing appropriate interventions could be a key priority in improving the mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviour of students. Keywords: mental health literacy, help-seeking behaviours, pharmacy students, Saudi Arabia