The Complexities of Mental Health Help Seeking Among Latinx College Students: Qualitative Inquiry Using the Theory of Planned Behavior

Current Latinx college students seek mental health treatment at much lower rates compared to the general student population. This is particularly concerning, as these rates have remained stubbornly low, even as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing sources of anxiety. Thus, university officials and mental health practitioners across the country have emphasized the need for interventions encouraging these students to utilize campus mental health resources. However, additional research is needed to form a foundation of knowledge for help seeking interventions. This investigation applies the theory of planned behavior to understand Latinx students’ help-seeking perspectives. Findings revealed that Latinx students viewed campus mental health resources as lacking value for them. Additionally, cultural norms established by family members represented a barrier to help seeking. Finally, Latinx students faced steep challenges navigating US health care systems and felt that mental health resources were not designed to serve minorities. This key insight can guide mental health help-seeking interventions.