Community Mental Health Center Accessibility

Abstract

A total of 223 households were surveyed, including 70% from low social classes. There was a high prevalence of "mental health problems," yet a majority of the persons affected sought no help. Very few people considered the mental health center as a resource and local physicians were the overwhelming choice for those who would seek help. A large percentage of lower-class people did know the purpose of the clinic but saw mental health problems in a pejorative fashion. Fear of being identified as mentally ill was an effective barrier to seeking services. The findings suggest that long-term community education, idigenous workers, and back-up services to local physicians would facilitate mental health service to the community.