Awareness, Attitudes, and Behaviors Related to Mental Health Literacy among Adolescents in Urban Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Mental health literacy is crucial for adolescents to recognize mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking behaviors, yet data on urban adolescents in India is limited. This study aimed to assess awareness, attitudes, and behaviors related to mental health literacy among adolescents in urban settings to inform targeted interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 adolescents aged 13–18 years in urban secondary and higher secondary schools in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, from April to May 2025. A pretested, semi-structured questionnaire based on the Mental Health Literacy Scale assessed awareness (15 points), attitudes (30 points), and behaviors (5 binary questions). Data were analyzed using SPSS, with Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression to identify associations (p<0.05). Results: Of 407 participants (96.7% response rate), 53.6% were female, and 50.1% were in secondary grades. Good awareness was observed in 86.0% (n=350), with higher secondary students (OR 2.48, 95% CI 1.34–4.60) and females (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.16–3.12) showing higher odds. Positive attitudes were found in 90.4% (n=368), associated with good awareness (OR 5.85, 95% CI 2.97–11.52). Behaviors included discussing mental health with peers (61.4%) and family (54.8%), but only 20.9% sought professional help. Conclusion: Urban adolescents exhibit high mental health literacy and positive attitudes, but professional help-seeking remains low. School-based interventions should enhance awareness and encourage help-seeking to reduce stigma.