Abstract
Background: This study compared mental health and physical health literacy using five health problems from each area.
Aims: The aim was to determine whether the same group had better physical than mental health literacy
Method: A sample of 263 participants completed an online questionnaire requiring them to name a problem/illness described in 10 vignettes and suggest treatment options. Five vignettes described mental health problems (anxiety, bipolar-disorder, depression, OCPD and schizophrenia) and five physical problems (angina, COPD, diabetes, a heart attack, and sinusitis). Participants were also asked to rate their sympathy and estimates of prevalence for each disorder.
Results: Recognition of the mental health disorders was superior compared recognition of the physical disorders. Analysis of treatment beliefs, sympathy and prevalence ratings also showed significant differences between disorders.
Conclusions: Results highlight the importance of education and the lack of public knowledge regarding major physical health conditions.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.