Formal versus informal pathways to mental health care in China

Abstract

ABSTRACT The reported 20% prevalence rate of diagnosable mental illnesses in China might be underestimated due to individuals’ hesitation to report mental health problems. This study tested whether a person’s mental health diagnosis would lead to endorsement and preference for professional care. A community-based survey was conducted in Shanghai, China (n = 466). A structural model showed that 68.8% of the respondents endorsed professional help. Male respondents had a lower endorsement rate for individuals diagnosed with substance use compared to PTSD, suicide, or schizophrenia. Female respondents showed a higher endorsement rate on formal care for schizophrenia compared to PTSD or depression. In the models between health and mental health care, 34% of the respondents endorsed health care, whereas 46% of the respondents endorsed mental health care, with helping-seeking attitudes and age being significant covariates. In China, resources allocated to public education may improve acceptance of professional pathways to mental health care.