Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Department of Health Services, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Curriculum Studies, Faculty of Psychology and Educational sciences, Allameh Tabatabai university, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Many adolescents with mental health disorders do not seek professional help due to various psychological and cultural barriers. Understanding these barriers is crucial for developing effective interventions. This study used qualitative content analysis to explore the behavioral and cultural obstacles to seeking psychological help among Iranian adolescent girls.
Methods: A qualitative content analysis approach was employed. Sixteen adolescent girls (aged 14–17) diagnosed with a mental health disorder in Saveh, Iran, participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data collection continued until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and systematically analyzed.
Results: Two main categories of barriers were identified: (1) Behavioral and individual barriers, including fear of stigma, lack of awareness, feelings of shame, and distrust in counseling; and (2) Cultural and social barriers, including parental discouragement, societal and gender norms, religious beliefs, and limited access to mental health services. These factors significantly influenced adolescents' perceptions and willingness to seek professional help.
Conclusion: Addressing these barriers requires targeted awareness campaigns, stigma reduction strategies, improved parental involvement, and expanded access to culturally sensitive mental health services. Integrating mental health education in schools and fostering supportive environments can encourage help-seeking behaviors among adolescent girls.
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