The Level and Associated Factors of Mental Health Literacy among Women Attending a Breast-Screening Programme in Kelantan

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Understanding mental health literacy among women is important in improving mental health outcomes and promoting help-seeking. Despite increasing attention to mental health, little is known about the mental health literacy of women in Kelantan. This study aimed to assess the level of mental health literacy (MHL) and identify the associated factors among women in Kelantan, Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from November 2023 to March 2024, involving 431 women aged 18 to 60 years selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Malay versions of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) and Mental Help Seeking Attitudes Scale (MHSAS). RESULTS: Participants had a mean age of 39.7(9.9) years, with the majority being Malay (98.6%), Muslim (99.1%), and married (77.5%). Most had completed secondary (43.4%) or tertiary education (55.9%), and 64% were from the B40 income group. The mean MHL score was 111.9 (13.5). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that higher education (b=8.36, p<0.001), higher monthly income (b=3.31, p=0.002), and higher scores of attitudes toward mental help-seeking (b = 2.70, p<0.001) were significantly associated with better MHL scores. Married women had significantly lower MHL scores (b=-3.82, p=0.004) and a family history of mental illness (b=-3.41, p=0.014). CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the need for targeted mental health awareness programmes for those with lower education and socioeconomic groups to improve their awareness and mental help-seeking behaviour.