Mental health literacy and awareness in young adults

Abstract

Mental health problems are increasingly common among young adults globally, but stigma, low levels of awareness and resources, continue to be part of the challenges hindering access to appropriate care. This study aimed at investigating mental health literacy and awareness in young adults, specifically on barriers to help-seeking and preferred support mechanisms. The study used a mixed-method approach in deriving findings from 106 participants, drawing from surveys as well as secondary literature. The results indicate that although 66% of the respondents said they were knowledgeable about mental health, only 25.5% said they were very knowledgeable. Familiarity was highest with common conditions such as anxiety (88.7%) and depression (83%), while awareness of bipolar disorder (42.5%) and suicide prevention (41.5%) was significantly lower. Key barriers to seeking help included fear of stigma (72.6%), lack of knowledge about resources (50.9%), and distrust of mental health services (43.2%). The most in-demand resources were personalized counseling at 71.6%, workshops at 53.8%, and peer support programs at 51.9%. The government should, with all urgency, implement holistic strategies such as mental health education in schools, stigma reduction campaigns, more access to counseling, and inclusion of digital tools for mental health. An inclusive mental health framework requires collaborative efforts among educational institutions, healthcare providers, policymakers, and families. Helping plug the gaps encourages resilience, invites help-seeking behavior, and engenders supportive contexts that empower the management of young adulthood's mental wellness.