Adolescents frequently experience mental health problems and tend to seek help. The present study aimed to measure the prevalence of mental health problems among young children and to identify the perceived barriers to receive mental health care. Study was conducted among Govt. high school students in city Rawalpindi. Sample was comprised of 300 students, aged between 13 to16. DASS-21 questionnaire was used to assess mental health problems of adolescents. Structure interview was conducted with school principal in order to identify the perceived barriers in receiving mental health care and treatment. Results exposed that a significant proportion of the students were found to be having mental health problems. 41% of examined population had depression symptoms, 32% exposed symptoms of anxiety and 27% of the population had symptoms of stress. Further findings revealed that one of the most significant barrier is parents� behaviour and lack of awareness. Parents are not willing to accept or to talk with teacher, school management and other person regarding the mental health of their children. The second most prominent barrier is the absence of mental health policy. While the third one is financial. Parents cannot afford to consult with psychiatric about the mental health of their children. It is strongly recommended that parents need to be aware the consequences of poor mental health of their children and seek mental health services. Moreover mental health policies should be initiated and implemented at national level to ensure children�s mental health care.

Username
Password