Knowledge, Perception, And Attitude Towards Mental Health-Seeking Behavior Among Students at Koforidua Technical University, In the New Juaben Municipality in The Eastern Region of Ghana

Abstract

Introduction: There is growing concern about the mental health and well-being of young people. Mental health issues touch many parts of our lives, from our relationships with others to what makes us feel fulfilled and how we deal with life’s challenges. Our mental health can affect factors like self-esteem and self-worth. Emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression, are the most prevalent mental health issues among young people, with behavioral disorders being the most common. Recent data indicates that the mental health of young people has worsened further. Methodology: A community-based analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 426 students from the KTU from the five main faculties of the university, using a stratified random sampling method. Data collection was done through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were employed to determine the significance of various factors. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The study found that majority of students 81.46% had good knowledge of mental health. Most students, 55.87%, showed a positive attitude, and less than half 45.07% had a negative perception. Overall, 62.91% of students were likely to seek mental health care, while 37.09% were unlikely. The sources of help were mainly parents, partners, mental health professionals, and religious leaders, while fewer students were willing to seek help from friends or other relatives. There was a significant association between knowledge level and mental health seeking behavior (χ² = 12.5, p = 0.0004). Knowledge was also a statistically significant predictor with students who have good knowledge more than twice as likely to seek help (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.33–3.80, p = 0.002). Conclusion: Students generally demonstrated good knowledge and positive attitudes towards mental health. However, negative and neutral perceptions remain prevalent. Despite this, most students were willing to seek help, especially from trusted individuals (parents and partners) and professionals. Strengthening mental health education and addressing stigma is essential in promoting knowledge, healthier perceptions and encouraging timely help-seeking behavior among students.