Mental Health Literacy of Chinese College Students: Implications on Mental Health Education in China

Abstract

In the face of China's rapid economic development and the increasingly competitive environment, mental health has been a growing public concern. Mental health literacy (MHL), defined as a series of knowledge, beliefs, and abilities that help one understand, cope with, and prevent mental health problems, has been identified as an important step toward mental health promotion especially for vulnerable groups like the youth. College students are at a crucial point in their development and face different challenges that may affect their mental health. This literature review presents the current research status of MHL internationally and in China. It also provides information on important research findings in MHL of foreign and Chinese college students. Implications of MHL on mental health education in China are also explored.