​The study looks at patterns of and factors associated with help-seeking behaviors among individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM) and/or serious psychological distress (SPD). Using California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) 2011–2012 of 40,803 adults, authors investigate associations between the multiple facilitating/preventing factors and outcome were examined, guided by the Andersen's Health Care Utilization Model. They found the prevalence of DM and SPD were 10.9 percent and 3.4 percent, respectively, among participants in the survey.

The participants with DM were more likely to experience SPD than those without DM. Participants with combined DM and SPD, the most underserved, were less likely to perceive the need for mental health services and less likely to seek help, compared to those with only SPD. Need factors (SPD status and perceived need) were significantly associated with help-seeking behaviors for mental health, along with predisposing factors (age, gender, obesity, race, and employment), and enabling factors (insurance, English proficiency).

Publication Authors:

• Jinah K. Shin
• et al