Erica K Yuen, Cynthia E Gangi, Kathleen Barakat, Forrest Harrison
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective: The current study examined how college students search online for mental health information and the impact of these searches on mental health literacy, stigma, and help-seeking.
Method: Undergraduate participants (N = 270; Fall 2015 to Spring 2019) were randomly assigned to search online for information about coping with anxiety for themselves or a friend (experimental activity), or to utilize Google Maps to answer navigational questions (control).
Results: Participants who conducted an online search demonstrated greater mental health literacy including optimism about psychotherapy, and lower levels of certain types of stigma, but lower willingness to seek/recommend professional help. Participants were more likely to recommend professional help for a friend compared to themselves.
Conclusions: Online searches for mental health information have the potential to increase mental health literacy. Universities can harness the Internet to reduce help-seeking barriers but should also address when it is appropriate to engage in self-help versus seek professional help.
期刊介绍：
Binge drinking, campus violence, eating disorders, sexual harassment: Today"s college students face challenges their parents never imagined. The Journal of American College Health, the only scholarly publication devoted entirely to college students" health, focuses on these issues, as well as use of tobacco and other drugs, sexual habits, psychological problems, and guns on campus, as well as the students... Published in cooperation with the American College Health Association, the Journal of American College Health is a must read for physicians, nurses, health educators, and administrators who are involved with students every day.
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