Perceived barriers, knowledge and attitudes towards help seeking for mental health services among Makerere University students

Abstract

This study was to investigate the associations between Perceived Barriers, Knowledge and Attitudes towards Help Seeking for Mental Health Services within the Makerere university student population. A purposive sample of 182 students aged 19-40 participated in a quantitative, correlational study with a focus on modulation effects. Four corresponding hypotheses were formulated and tested to provide a comprehensive understanding of these relationships, aiming to contribute valuable insights from the students. Data was collected through structured questionnaires measuring barriers, knowledge and health-seeking attitudes for mental health and services. A positive correlation emerged between barriers and knowledge and (r = .363, p < 0.001). No significant positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitudes towards help-seeking (r = .180, p > 0.01). There was no significant association between barriers and attitudes towards help-seeking (r = .054, p > 0.05). Knowledge moderated the relationship between perceived barriers and attitudes towards help-seeking (moderation r = -.342 to .0160, p < 0.01). These findings highlight the importance of knowledge in addressing mental health barriers. The positive correlation between Barriers and Knowledge might be explained by heightened awareness leading to discomfort with seeking help. Alternatively, the moderating effect could indicate that students with more knowledge are better equipped to navigate barriers due to their understanding of the importance of seeking help and available resources. This study emphasizes the need for comprehensive mental health education that addresses both knowledge and potential barriers to accessing services. Future research could explore the underlying reasons for the seemingly counterintuitive positive correlation between Barriers and Knowledge.