DETERMINANTS OF MENTAL HEALTH HELP-SEEKING ATTITUDE OF SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: BASIS FOR INTERVENTION PROGRAM

Education, Guidance and Counseling, Behavioral Sciences

Mental health issues among adolescents remain a global concern, yet help-seeking behaviors are low due to various psychological and social barriers. This study examines the role of emotional intelligence (EI) and mental health literacy (MHL) in shaping mental health help-seeking attitudes among senior high school students. Using a quantitative correlational design, data were collected from 125 students in public schools in Dinalupihan West District, Bataan, utilizing the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT), Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS), and Mental Help-Seeking Attitudes Scale (MHSAS). Findings revealed that while both emotional intelligence and mental health literacy significantly predicted help-seeking attitudes, mental health literacy emerged as the stronger determinant. The results underscore the importance of enhancing students’ knowledge and understanding of mental health to promote proactive help-seeking behaviors. Based on these findings, a mental health intervention program was proposed, prioritizing the development of mental health literacy alongside emotional intelligence to foster a supportive and responsive school environment.

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