E-Mental Health Service Use among Young Adults

Abstract

Background: Young adults, aged 18-24 years, often delay or avoid seeking help for their mental health concerns. The use of the internet to deliver e-mental health support offers a low cost, easy-access option, however the factors which influence online help-seeking remain unclear. Aim: To examine patterns and characteristics of e-mental health service use among young adults framed by Andersen’s Behavioral Model. Methods: One hundred and sixty-one young Australians completed an online survey, which comprised of sociodemographic questions and seven standardised measures: Attitudes Towards Services, Berkman-Syme Social Network Index, General Self-Efficacy Scale, Service Obstacles Scale, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales and Actual and General Help-seeking Questionnaires. Results: The majority of young people (65.8%, n = 106) reported having accessed online mental health supports. In particular, males and young adults living with family members were more like to access social media for their emotional problems. In comparison, 39.8% (n = 64) had accessed professional online services - primarily those who reported feeling socially isolated and in distress. Hierarchical logistical regression identified three predisposing factors: a positive attitude towards services facilitated online help-seeking, whereas higher education and living alone presented as significant barriers. Conclusion: E-mental health platforms can bridge the gap between technology and conventional mental health care. Whilst young adults engage in online help-seeking, more needs to be done to integrate this service model within the Australian healthcare system.