Help-Seeking Behaviors

Summary

Help seeking is a skill that must be learned and can only be exercised in an environment of acceptance and trust. It is a protective factor in the context of Social Network Health and can ultimately become a cultural norm. Strong relational connections must be formed to encourage help seeking. To express the benefit of this outcome of Social Network Health approaches: if an individual has a large number of connections that they are comfortable reaching out to for help, to solve even the most sensitive problems, and help-seeking is accepted, encouraged, and culturally normal, then there is a strong chance that the individual will reach out for help to a trusted connection, which will likely increase their chances to solve their problem. Frequent expression of help-seeking behaviors is an indicator of the maturity of a community in terms of mental health.

Notes and references

Effect of the Wingman-Connect Upstream Suicide Prevention Program for Air Force Personnel in Training.  A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial JAMA Open Network, October, 2020

Research Outcomes – Evidence Based Key Findings include:

• Increased class cohesion, morale, positive bonds, and acceptability of help seeking

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Help-seeking behaviors in the context of preventative mental health care refer to actions taken by individuals to seek assistance or resources to address potential or existing mental health concerns before they become more severe. These behaviors are crucial for early intervention and can significantly contribute to better mental health outcomes. Key aspects of help-seeking behaviors include:

1. Recognition of Need: Individuals must first recognize and acknowledge their need for help. This awareness is the initial step in seeking assistance and can involve identifying symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues​ (Center for Teaching & Learning)​​ (National University)​.
2. Knowledge and Understanding: Awareness of mental health resources and understanding how to access them is critical. This includes knowing about available services such as counseling, support groups, hotlines, and online resources​ (National University)​.
3. Reducing Stigma: Overcoming the stigma associated with mental health issues is essential. Individuals are more likely to seek help if they feel that it is socially acceptable and that they will not be judged or discriminated against for doing so​ (Wikipedia)​.
4. Social Support: Encouragement from family, friends, and community members can motivate individuals to seek help. Social support networks play a vital role in facilitating help-seeking behaviors by providing emotional support and practical assistance​ (Center for Teaching & Learning)​​ (Wikipedia)​.
5. Accessibility of Services: Ensuring that mental health services are easily accessible and affordable increases the likelihood that individuals will seek help. This includes having services available in multiple formats (in-person, online, telehealth) and locations​ (Vanderbilt University)​.
6. Positive Past Experiences: Individuals who have had positive experiences with seeking help in the past are more likely to do so again. Building trust in mental health services through positive interactions can encourage future help-seeking behaviors​ (Wikipedia)​.
7. Education and Awareness Campaigns: Public health campaigns and educational programs that promote mental health awareness and the benefits of early intervention can encourage help-seeking behaviors. These initiatives can provide information on recognizing mental health issues and available resources​ (National University)​.

By promoting these behaviors, preventative mental health care can effectively address issues early, reduce the severity of mental health problems, and improve overall well-being.