Current Status and Factors Influencing Help Seeking Intention of Adolescents at High Risk of Suicide From Mental Health Professionals in Central China

Abstract

Introduction:

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 years globally, and seeking professional help is important. However, there is limited research on the help seeking intentions of adolescents at high risk of suicide from Mental Health Professionals (MHPs). This study aims to explore the status and factors influencing high suicide risk adolescents’ intentions to seek help from MHPs.

Method:

We investigated help seeking intentions among 401 high suicide risk adolescents across eight pilot schools in China. Suicide risk was assessed by the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised, while general help seeking intentions were measured by the General Help Seeking Questionnaire. We also utilized several scales to measure factors influencing the intentions of high suicide risk adolescents to seek help from MHPs.

Results:

High suicide risk adolescents show a moderate intention to seek help from MHPs. Stigma negatively impacts intentions, while greater mental health awareness and knowledge literacy enhance them.

Discussion:

This study highlights the need to reduce stigma and provide targeted mental health support for adolescents at high risk of suicide, such as school-based counseling and trained personnel to identify and refer them for care. Future research should examine environmental and familial factors that influence help seeking intention and suicide risk.