Young Muslim Adults: Factors Affecting Attitudes Towards Utilizing Mental Health Services

Abstract

The underutilization of mental health services by Muslims in the United States may be attributed to multiple barriers, including inequitable access to care, cultural and language barriers, incongruence between religious beliefs and treatment plans, and societal stigma. Data on the prevalence of mental illness and mental health service utilization for Muslims living in the United States is limited, making it challenging to identify factors that affect attitudes towards seeking treatment. This study evaluated factors that influence attitudes towards utilizing mental health services for young Muslim adults living in the United States. Participants (N=131) completed an anonymous online survey about their attitudes, beliefs, knowledge of, and familiarity with mental illness and mental health services. Results highlighted the importance of knowledge and familiarity with mental health as a significant predictor of attitudes towards mental health service utilization. As predicted, those with traditional cultural beliefs tended to have less favorable attitudes towards utilizing mental health services. Implications for future research and clinical work are included.