Coping and help-seeking for mental health issues among undergraduates in Hong Kong

Abstract

Studies revealed big gap between high percentage of undergraduates with reported mental health difficulties (i.e. more than 20%; Wong, Cheung, Chan, Ma, & Wa Tang, 2006) and low utilization of free university counselling service (UCS) (i.e. 3.1%; Hong Kong Government, 2016). The present study measured the general mental health condition of full-time university students, their coping style, relevant stigma and help-seeking pattern within the conceptual framework of help-seeking proposed by Rickwood and Thomas (2012) and using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB; Ajzen, 1985). 110 full-time university students from 9 universities completed questionnaire during final examination period. The sample had mild depression and moderate anxiety as measured using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale; preferred selfcoping style like acceptance, planning, active coping, positive reframing, self-blame and self-distraction. Despite low stigma towards mental illness and towards seeking psychological help, the intention to seek help from UCS was still significantly lower than that from friends and other informal sources. Result from multiple linear regression revealed that attitude and subjective norm towards help-seeking as well as the stress severity significantly predicted intention to seek help from university counselling services. Promotion of mental health first-aid in campus is needed so peers know what to do and make proper referral to UCS when necessary. Future direction of research could be on the possibility to utilize peer supporters or mentors in the university’s counselling system.