College students' utilization of the Internet to search for mental health information: Effects on mental health literacy, stigma, and help-seeking.

OBJECTIVE

The current study examined how college students search online for mental health information and the impact of these searches on mental health literacy, stigma, and help-seeking.

METHOD: Undergraduate participants (N = 270; Fall 2015 to Spring 2019) were randomly assigned to search online for information about coping with anxiety for themselves or a friend (experimental activity), or to utilize Google Maps to answer navigational questions (control).

RESULTS

Participants who conducted an online search demonstrated greater mental health literacy including optimism about psychotherapy, and lower levels of certain types of stigma, but lower willingness to seek/recommend professional help. Participants were more likely to recommend professional help for a friend compared to themselves.

CONCLUSIONS

Online searches for mental health information have the potential to increase mental health literacy. Universities can harness the Internet to reduce help-seeking barriers but should also address when it is appropriate to engage in self-help versus seek professional help.