EXPLORING STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS REGARDING MENTAL HEALTH KNOWLEDGE IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES OF SUKKUR REGION, SINDH

Abstract

Mental health is a global issue, and one in four around the globe is facing a mental health disorder. In low- and middle-income countries almost 24% of university students have symptoms of depression. This study aims to explore the knowledge and knowledge barriers and coping strategies regarding mental health problems in university students of Sukkur region. This study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. The participants were thirty-two (n=32) undergraduate students from four public universities of Sukkur region, Sindh. They were selected through purposive along with criterion sampling techniques. Data were collected through in-depth semi structured interviews and analyzed through thematic analysis. Students are aware of common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and there remains a significant knowledge gap about the availability of mental health resources. Cultural beliefs and social stigma play a vital role in discouraging help seeking behaviors, leading many students to prefer spiritual or traditional remedies over professional counseling. Insufficient mental health education, fear of stigma and lack of access to professional support contribute to students’ unwillingness to seek treatment. However, limited financial resources and stigma prevent many students from accessing professional counseling. There is the value of peer support groups and training programs in overcoming mental health problems. Students who got professional help reported good academic achievement and overall well-being and its importance sharply available mental health services.