Cross-sectional examination of therapy knowledge and preferred sources among American adults not receiving mental healthcare.

Abstract

The aims of the study are to examine existing knowledge about mental health therapy options, and how this differs across demographic groups; examine differences in confidence to describe therapies; and explore preferred sources for therapy information. A survey was conducted online in 2023 via probability-based sampling and weighted relative to the 2021 American Community Survey. Participants were 4795 US adults who reported no prior mental healthcare. Most endorsed knowledge of therapy options (75.7 %; n = 3630) but low confidence (median=2.00 ["somewhat unsure"]) in their ability to describe them, and this differed across groups (e.g., younger adults more confident than older adults). Most preferred therapy sources were mental health professionals (51.0 %), physicians (26.8 %), or independent online research (12.0 %). Least preferred sources include internet content creators and teachers/professors (both: 0.1 % [n = 3]). Many people are aware of therapy options but lack confidence in this knowledge which may impact help-seeking; messaging to increase mental healthcare utilization should consider elevating and partnering with preferred sources. Psychoeducation is crucial to help the public with informed treatment decision making. Results show the most preferred source to teach about therapy is mental health professionals themselves. The effectiveness of psychoeducation can likely be increased when partnering and highlighting these sources.