Investigating Help-Seeking Behaviours For Depression Among Students In Public Universities: A Case Of Kisii University, Kisii County, Kenya.

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the reasons underlying delay or avoidance of help-seeking behaviours among university students. The study was conducted at Kisii University's main campus and its specific objectives were to assess the prevalence of depression, examine disparities in help-seeking behaviours, evaluate factors that promote help-seeking behaviours, and identify significant barriers to help-seeking behaviours. The study utilized two theoretical models—Beck’s Cognitive Theory (BCT) and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to understand why university students remain the least likely to seek help for emotional problems. This study utilized a correlational research design to explore the reasons behind university students remaining reluctant to seek help for depression and a simple random sampling strategy to select respondents. Data collection was done using questionnaires and discussion guides from a sample of 896 undergraduates out of a total population of 18,430. Pretesting of research instruments was conducted at Kabianga University, Kericho County using 60 students aged 18-25 years. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency counts, cross-tabulation, t-tests, ANOVA, correlations, and regressions. The findings revealed a high prevalence of depression, assessed at 48.8%. However, the prevalence of help-seeking behaviour was estimated at 37.8%. In addition, help-seeking behaviours were found to vary significantly according to social and demographic characteristics. Factors that facilitated help-seeking behaviour included strong social networks, attitudes towards disease while significant barriers identified were stigma, negative attitudes toward mental health, and a lack of knowledge about available resources. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to reduce barriers and promote help-seeking behaviours. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the factors influencing help-seeking behaviours among university students and highlights the need for interventions to promote mental health support utilization. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of the benefits of help-seeking and offer a foundation for future initiatives aimed at improving student mental health services.