Barriers to Mental Health Services

Abstract

This study examined intrinsic and extrinsic barriers to mental health care among young (18-35 years,n =149) and older adults (36-59 years,n =146 ) using a 44 item self-report measure, Barriers to Mental Health Services Scale- R (BMHSS-R). Results indicated that middle aged adults have higher intrinsic and extrinsic barriers when it comes to accessing mental health services than young adults. Intrinsic barriers were found to be higher in existence than extrinsic barriers in both young adults and middle aged adults. Gender differences were also studied and it was found that males have more barriers when it comes to accessing mental health services than females.  However results reveal no difference between young males and females with respect to barriers. Analysis has revealed that both males and females report higher intrinsic barriers than extrinsic ones.