Mental health help-seeking in China

Background In China, mental health disorders are considered the leading causes of disability, yet treatment-seeking behaviors among individuals with mental health problems are deficient. Aims This study sought to examine attitudes and participant characteristics associated with help-seeking among adults residing in China's Shanghai metropolitan area. Methods This study employed a convenience cross-sectional sampling strategy and recruited 500 participants in public places in Shanghai. The survey administered in Mandarin was comprised of two sections: a series of demographic questions and standardized instruments measuring stigma and help-seeking attitudes. Results Findings indicate that beliefs about seeking professional help for mental health are influenced by knowing someone with a mental health problem. In addition, men who were older, had a child, and were married endorsed more openness to help-seeking for mental health needs, underscoring the importance of life experience as an essential variable when considering attitudes toward help-seeking. Conclusions Findings support future research identifying the mechanisms by which these life experiences impact individuals' help-seeking attitudes.