MPC Member Publications

This database contains a listing of population studies publications written by MPC Members. Anyone can add a publication by an MPC student, faculty, or staff member to this database; new citations will be reviewed and approved by MPC administrators.

Full Citation

Title: Help-seeking and access to mental health care in a university student population.

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2007

ISSN: 0025-7079

DOI: 10.1097/MLR.0b013e31803bb4c1

PMID: 17571007

Abstract: BACKGROUND University students represent an important population in which to study access to mental health care. Understanding their unmet needs will enhance efforts to prevent and treat mental disorders during a pivotal period in life. OBJECTIVE To quantify mental health service use and estimate how various factors are associated with help-seeking and access in a university student population. DESIGN A Web-based survey was administered to a random sample of 2785 students attending a large, public university with a demographic profile similar to the national student population. Nonresponse bias was accounted for using administrative data and a nonrespondent survey. MEASURES Mental health was measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire screens for depressive and anxiety disorders. Mental health service utilization was measured as having received psychotropic medication or psychotherapy in the past year. RESULTS Of students with positive screens for depression or anxiety, the proportion who did not receive any services ranged from 37% to 84%, depending on the disorder. Predictors of not receiving services included a lack of perceived need, being unaware of services or insurance coverage, skepticism about treatment effectiveness, low socioeconomic background, and being Asian or Pacific Islander. CONCLUSIONS Even in an environment with universal access to free short-term psychotherapy and basic health services, most students with apparent mental disorders did not receive treatment. Initiatives to improve access to mental health care for students have the potential to produce substantial benefits in terms of mental health and related outcomes.

Url: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17571007

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Eisenberg, Daniel; Golberstein, Ezra; Gollust, Sarah Elizabeth

Periodical (Full): Medical care

Issue: 7

Volume: 45

Pages: 594-601

Countries:

IPUMS NHGIS NAPP IHIS ATUS Terrapop