Interventions to improve mental help-seeking behaviours in individuals with depressive symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Several individuals with depressive symptoms either do not seek help or delay treatment. This study elucidates the effects of various interventions on help-seeking behaviours, key intermediate indicators of behaviour (intentions, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control), and stigma. Methods: Six databases were searched from their inception to January 2024. Two researchers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality appraisal. Data were analysed using Review Manager 5.4 software and STATA 18.0 software. Results: Thirteen studies were included, encompassing seven types of interventions: positive emotion infusion, information support intervention, mental contrasting with implementation intentions, self-perspective interventions, telephone care management, health information feedback, and depression follow-up monitoring. Existing interventions did not improve help-seeking behaviour in individuals with depressive symptoms (OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.05, 2.94, P =.05) but improved help-seeking intentions immediately after the intervention (SMD = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.20, 1.08, P