Facilitating factors and barriers in help-seeking behaviour in adolescents and young adults with depressive symptoms: A qualitative study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247516
• Publication Date: 2021-03-08T18:31:42Z
• Authors: Eline Eigenhuis; Ruth C. Waumans; Anna D. T. Muntingh; Marjan J. Westerman; Marlinde van Meijel; Neeltje M. Batelaan; Anton J. L. M. va...
• Keywords: Mental health literacy; Help Seeking; Shame; Thematic Analysis; Functional illiteracy

Objective Despite the availability of mental health care, only a minority depressed adolescents and young adults receive treatment. This study aimed to investigate facilitating factors barriers in help-seeking behaviour with depressive symptoms, using qualitative research methods. Methods In-depth, semi-structured interviews 32 participants current or previous symptoms aged 16 24 years thematic content analysis. Findings Our sample consisted mainly who eventually found their way professional help. Five main themes by were identified: (I) Individual functioning well-being, (II) Health literacy, (III) Attitudinal aspects, (IV) Surroundings, (V) Accessibility. Prompts seek treatment disease burden poor academic performance. illiteracy negatively influenced treatment-seeking behaviour. aspects either hampered (shame, wanting handle problem oneself, negative attitudes towards treatment) facilitated (positive help-seeking. Furthermore, adolescents’ surroundings (school, family, peers) appeared play critical role recognition encouragement Barriers regarding accessibility care found, whereas direct easy access greatly improved use. Conclusion Facilitating can process adults, may guide efforts increase this vulnerable age group. In particular, from school personnel peers providers positively our sample. attitudinal be important seeking public/school campaigns at reducing stigma might necessary improve utilization