Mental Health Literacy and Its Association with Help-Seeking Intention among Filipino College Students

Abstract

Mental health concerns among college students have worsened globally, yet help-seeking remains low, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Mental health literacy (MHL) has been widely identified as a key factor influencing individuals’ willingness to seek help; however, evidence examining its role among Filipino college students remains limited. This study aimed to determine the level of MHL among Filipino college students and to examine whether it is significantly associated with their help-seeking intention. A descriptive correlational cross-sectional design was employed among 112 college students from a private higher education institution in Southern Leyte, Philippines. MHL was measured using the Mental Health Literacy Scale, while help-seeking intention was assessed using the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participants’ characteristics and study variables. Due to the non-normal distribution of help-seeking intention scores, Spearman’s rho was conducted to examine the relationship between MHL and help-seeking intention. Participants demonstrated a generally moderate level of MHL, with higher competence in recognizing mental disorders and accessing mental health information, and comparatively lower knowledge of self-treatment and professional help available. Help-seeking intention was also moderate, with greater willingness to seek help from formal sources than informal ones. Correlation analysis revealed a very weak and statistically non-significant association between MHL and help-seeking intention. The findings suggest that while Filipino college students possess foundational mental health knowledge, MHL alone may not be sufficient to translate into stronger help-seeking intentions. These results highlight the need for comprehensive and culturally responsive mental health programs within higher education institutions that address not only knowledge gaps but also psychosocial and contextual barriers to help-seeking.