Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 13, 2025

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Mental Health Literacy: a Critical Target for Narrowing Racial Disparities in Behavioral Health
R R Tambling1, C D'Aniello2, B S Russell1
1Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, 348 Mansfield Road, Unit 1058, Storrs, CT 06269-1058 USA.
Abstract:
One of the most persistent and troubling health disparities is the underutilization of mental health services, particularly for depression and anxiety, commonly occurring behavioral health concerns. The gap between individuals who need mental health care and those who receive care is large, and identified barriers to treatment include poor mental health and insurance literacy, as well as stigmatizing attitudes toward mental health disorders. The present study presents the results of an inquiry into the mental health literacy, insurance literacy, internalized stigma, and mental health symptoms. Results suggest that mental health literacy is poor and associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, stress, internalized stigma, and caregiver burden. Implications of poor mental health literacy, as well as demographic disparities in literacy, are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Health Literacy
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Motivational Bias
Halo Effect
Treatment Strategies for Psychological Disorders
Psychological therapies focus on modifying emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through talking, interpreting, listening, rewarding, challenging, and modeling. Clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers commonly practice psychotherapy. Clinical...
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy

