A review of theories and models utilized by empirical studies about mental health help-seeking and implications for future research

TL;DR

This review analyzes 16 theories used in empirical studies on mental health help-seeking among young adults, highlighting key factors and proposing future research directions for more effective, culturally sensitive interventions.

Contribution

It systematically categorizes existing theories and models, identifying limitations and suggesting a holistic, multi-level approach for future mental health help-seeking research.

Findings

Identified 16 theories and models guiding help-seeking behavior

Key factors include accessibility, stigma, and social support

Highlight need for culturally sensitive, multi-level interventions

Abstract

Purpose: With the rise of mental health risks globally, it is urgent to provide effective mental health support. However, a holistic understanding of how people seek help for mental health problems remains limited, impeding the development of evidence-based intervention programs to facilitate help-seeking behavior. This study reviews current theories that guide empirical research on young adults' help-seeking behavior using technologies, identifies limitations in existing frameworks, and proposes directions for future research. Methods: We searched databases that are most likely to contain mental health help-seeking practices in relation to information technology, including PubMed, ACM Digital Library, Web of Science, PsycInfo, ScienceDirect, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library. Results: Of 2443 abstracts reviewed, 43 studies met the criteria and were included in the analysis. We identified 16 theories and models. They represent seven perspectives to view mental health help-seeking and reveal factors such as accessibility, stigma, and social support as key factors influencing help-seeking. Limitations: We summarized the theories and models and categorized them based on their primary perspectives. Cross-perspective connections could be explored in future reviews. Conclusions: A holistic approach to creating culturally sensitive multi-level interventions that consider individual, interpersonal, and community factors is needed to advance effective mental health help-seeking support strategies.