Formal versus informal pathways to mental health care in China

• Published in: China journal of social work 2024-01, Vol.17 (1), p.3-20
• Main Authors: Brewer, K. B., Gearing, R. E., Cheung, M., Leung, P., Carr, L. C., Savani, S., Ma, Y., Chen, W., He, X.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: China; gender; Health behavior; Health problems; Help seeking behavior; Mental disorders; Mental health; Mental health services; pathways to care; Post traumatic stress disorder; Schizophrenia; service utilisation; Substance abuse
• ISSN: 1752-5098; 1752-5101
• DOI: 10.1080/17525098.2023.2252913

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.