Mental health literacy
2000/11/01 by A. F. Jorm, Anthony F. Jorm · 1,999 citations
Health Professions · Medicine · Nursing · Psychology · #Clinical psychology #Distress #Health Literacy and Information Accessibility #Health care #Health literacy #Literacy #Medicine #Mental Health Treatment and Access #Mental Health via Writing #Mental health #Mental health law #Mental health literacy #Mental illness #Middle Eastern Mental Health Issues & Syndromes #Nursing #Pedagogy #Political science #Psychiatry #Psychological intervention #Psychology #Public health
paper · pdf · doi:10.1192/bjp.177.5.396
published in The British Journal of Psychiatry 177(5), 396-401 (Cambridge University Press)
openalex publication_date 2000/11/01 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/05
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although the benefits of public knowledge of physical diseases are widely accepted, knowledge about mental disorders (mental health literacy) has been comparatively neglected. AIMS: To introduce the concept of mental health literacy to a wider audience, to bring together diverse research relevant to the topic and to identify gaps in the area. METHOD: A narrative review within a conceptual framework. RESULTS: Many members of the public cannot recognise specific disorders or different types of psychological distress. They differ from mental health experts in their beliefs about the causes of mental disorders and the most effective treatments. Attitudes which hinder recognition and appropriate help-seeking are common. Much of the mental health information most readily available to the public is misleading. However, there is some evidence that mental health literacy can be improved. CONCLUSIONS: If the public's mental health literacy is not improved, this may hinder public acceptance of evidence-based mental health care. Also, many people with common mental disorders may be denied effective self-help and may not receive appropriate support from others in the community.
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