Assessment of Awareness and Attitude Towards Mental Illness Among Outpatient Attendees in a Tertiary Care Hospital of North Gujarat

Abstract

Background: Mental illness is a significant global health concern, and in India, it is compounded by a considerable treatment gap and widespread social stigma. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards mental illness among Outpatient Attendees in a Tertiary Care Hospital of North Gujarat, a region with limited existing data.
Methods: An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 adult participants attending Outpatient Department in a Tertiary Care Hospital of North Gujarat. Data were collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire to evaluate the participants' knowledge, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviours regarding mental illness. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with results presented in frequencies and percentages.
Results: The findings revealed a mixed level of mental health literacy. While 75.2% of participants correctly identified that individuals with mental illness could suffer from depression, a significant majority (96.0%) believed severe cases should be confined to a mental hospital. Over half (61.7%) perceived individuals with mental illness as prone to violence, and 76.0% attributed the illness to a lack of willpower. A profound attitudinal dichotomy was observed: while 88.0% of respondents agreed on the need for social acceptance, a substantial portion held stigmatizing views regarding marriage (56.5%) and employment (59.0%). In terms of help-seeking, 52.2% would consult a friend or family member, contrasting with only 24.5% who would see a general practitioner.
Conclusion: The study underscores the persistence of misconceptions and deeply rooted stigma towards mental illness in North Gujarat. The findings highlight a critical gap between acknowledging the existence of mental illness and a willingness to fully integrate affected individuals into society. Targeted public health interventions are urgently needed to address these prevailing myths and improve mental health literacy, thereby fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.