Mental health profiles and help seeking behaviors among community members in the Houston area

• In Event: Mental Health and Help-Seeking Across Cultural Contexts

Abstract

This study aimed to identify subgroups among 500 adults in Houston, Texas, based on their mental status, resources awareness, and service satisfaction. A cluster analysis revealed three clusters: Struggling and Underserved, Thriving and Well-Served, and Stable and Disconnected, which differed significantly by sexual orientation, income Level, age, and educational level. The association between clusters and three help-seeking behavior types were examined. The Stable and Disconnected cluster reported the lowest engagement across all help-seeking types. Findings underscored the importance of targeted interventions to address the unique needs of each subgroup. Special attention could be given to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, focusing not only on resource awareness but also on improving service quality and satisfaction.

Authors

• Xin Li, Texas A&M University

• Gary Wingenbach, Texas A&M University

• Jun Wang, Texas A&M University

• Josephine Engels, Mental Health America of Greater Houston

• Andrea Usanga, Mental Health America of Greater Houston