Abstract
This explorative study assesses perceptions of mental health and help-seeking behavior among adults in Vietnam. Methods included
questionnaires (200) and focus group discussions (eight). Respondents were often unable to name specific mental illnesses.
Frequently mentioned symptoms of mental illness were talking nonsense, talking/laughing alone and wandering. Pressure/stress
and studying/thinking too much were often identified causes. Most respondents showed a preference for medical treatment options,
often in combination with family care. The results show that perceptions of mental health and help-seeking behaviour are influenced
by a lack of knowledge and a mix of traditional and modern views.
questionnaires (200) and focus group discussions (eight). Respondents were often unable to name specific mental illnesses.
Frequently mentioned symptoms of mental illness were talking nonsense, talking/laughing alone and wandering. Pressure/stress
and studying/thinking too much were often identified causes. Most respondents showed a preference for medical treatment options,
often in combination with family care. The results show that perceptions of mental health and help-seeking behaviour are influenced
by a lack of knowledge and a mix of traditional and modern views.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-9
- DOI 10.1007/s10597-011-9393-x
- Authors
- Lia van der Ham, Athena Institute, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Pamela Wright, Medical Committee Netherlands-Vietnam, Weteringschans 32, 1017 SH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Thang Vo Van, Faculty of Public Health, Hue College of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue province Vietnam
- Vuong D. K. Doan, Faculty of Public Health, Hue College of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue city, Thua Thien Hue province Vietnam
- Jacqueline E. W. Broerse, Athena Institute, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Journal Community Mental Health Journal
- Online ISSN 1573-2789
- Print ISSN 0010-3853