Symposium
Child and adolescent mental health
Chuong Hock Ting, M.D.
Lecturer
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
Cecilia A. Essau, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
Professor
University of Roehampton
London, England, United Kingdom
Background: Mental Health Literacy (MHL), the knowledge and beliefs that aid in the recognition, management, and prevention of mental disorders, is a critical determinant of help-seeking behavior and early intervention, particularly in diverse and often underserved regions.
Aim(s): This study explored adolescents’ and adults’ perspectives on mental health, coping strategies, help-seeking behaviours, and intention to assist others, in order to inform strategies for participant recruitment, as well as the implementation and dissemination of a cognitive-behavioral (CBT)-based psychological intervention “Super Skills for Life” (SSL).
Method: This qualitative study utilized culturally-adapted vignettes in focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore MHL among adolescents (aged 12-15) and adults (older than 18) in Sarawak, Malaysia, a state characterized by unique cultural, geographical, and socio-economic landscapes. A total of five FGDs of 20 adults and six FGDs of 24 adolescents were conducted.
Results: Findings reveal high stigma, where cultural beliefs often overshadow biopsychosocial understandings of mental health. While most participants could identify depression and anxiety, the understanding of CBT’s core principle, i.e., the interconnection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, was minimal. This deficit may serve as a barrier to self-management and engagement with professional help. Interestingly, social media emerged as a primary resource. A pronounced urban-rural disparity in awareness and access was identified.
Conclusion: The study concludes that tailored MHL initiatives for Southeast Asian culture, such as in Sarawak, must move beyond symptom recognition to include therapeutic approaches like CBT. Developing culturally-adapted, community-based programs delivered by trusted local intermediaries is essential to building an actionable, skills-based mental health ecosystem and fostering a more resilient population.