Mental Health Literacy in Community Setting: A Descriptive Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51333/njpsw.2021.v22.i1.291Abstract
Background: Mental health literacy is important for all societies, it will be helpful for reducing the treatment gap. Mental health campaigns can reduce the chronic city of psychiatric disorders, illness can treat as earliest as possible. Community awareness of Psychiatric Disorders helps to reduce stigma, discrimination, sensitization, treatment and social inclusion. Aim: To assess the literacy level of Mental Illness among the community people. Methodology: The study was conducted at the rural health training centre, Najafgarh, Delhi. Simple survey methods were used for data collection. A total of 306 individuals were selected for the study. The researcher informs community people with help of ASHA workers to come to RHTC, Najafgarh. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire that was designed specifically for Indian contexts and was translated into Hindi. Tools were used for the study Socio-demographic datasheet and the public perceptions of mental illness questionnaire applied which assess the area of the previous contact with people with mental health issues, understanding of the psychiatric disorder, knowledge of psychiatric illness and attitude towards the individual with mental problems. The questionnaire was translated into Hindi, and independently back-translated by research experts in the mental health field.
Results: Results show that the mean age of participants was 33 years, 62% participants male and 37% participants female. Participants understanding of mental health among the community participants negative perception was higher. Less mental Health services availability reported in the community. Conclusion: Mental health awareness is one of the most important phenomenon for increased literacy and reducing the treatment gap-related Mental Health.
Keywords: Mental Illness. Community, Awareness, Treatment Gap
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