Predictors of Access to Mental Health Care Services Among Persons with Severe Mental Disorders: A Community-Based Study from Rural South India

Background: Various factors are associated with access to care among patients with severe mental disorders (SMD). The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of access to care among patients with SMD in rural south India. Methods: The study was conducted in Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu, India. After screening and confirmation of SMD by community level workers and trained mental health workers, participants were classified as those who have at some time sought treatment and those who have never accessed mental health care services. Results: Among 422 participants with SMD, 74% had at some point in time accessed mental health care services. Logistic regression showed education asthe predictor of access to mental health care services among patients with severe mental disorders. Conclusion: Improving education and awareness on the mental illness and its treatment options will help the patients with mental illness to seek care early leading to favorable outcomes.