Young men’s access to community-based mental health care: qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators

Abstract

Background: Young men experiencing mental ill health report the lowest rates of professional help-seeking of any demographic group across the lifespan. This phase of life (i.e. adolescence and emerging adulthood) also corresponds to a period of disconnection from healthcare services for young men. Aims: The present exploratory qualitative study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to mental health care, as identified by a sample of young help-seeking men and staff involved in mental health service provision. Method: Interviews and focus groups were undertaken with 25 young males (mean = 18.80 years, SD =3.56) and four service providers. Participants were recruited from headspace enhan..