Depression and Help-Seeking Intention Among Young Adults: The Theory of Planned Behavior

ABSTRACT

Background: One in five adults are diagnosed with mental illness in the United States.  Young adults, ages 18 to 25, have the highest prevalence of depression (10.9%).  Depression is also a risk factor for suicide.  The current study applied the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the predictors that influence help-seeking intentions on utilization of mental health services among a diverse population of young adults. Methods: The study designed was a cross-sectional online survey of 18 to 24-year-old young adults (n= 430) who lived, worked, and/or attended school in San Francisco, California.  The survey was available in English, Spanish, and Chinese; and accessible from August 2016 through March 2017.  The online survey was a modified version of surveys developed by Mo and Mak, and Reavley and colleagues. Results: The demographic composition of the sample included:  white (35.3%), Latino(a) (25.3%), and Chinese (21.6%); and primarily female (58.6%). Almost one-third of the participants (31.6%) screened positive for depression.  Nearly half of the participants had ever met with a mental health professional (49.5%, n=213).   There was a strong, positive correlation for attitude [r=.61, P<.01] and help-seeking intention.  Positive attitudes in help-seeking was a consistent predictor when using linear regression models. Discussion: The TPB variables, especially attitudes, were highly predictive in help-seeking intention for mental health services. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health Educators who work in college-based student health centers can use the findings to develop interventions at the individual and community levels.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the the Loma Linda Dissertation Grant and Experiment.com Crowdfunder.