Impact of Psychotic-Like Experiences on Perceived Need for Mental Health Care, Interest in Care, and Barriers to Care

Abstract

Objective:Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are associated with increased risk for developing psychotic disorders and with perceived need for mental health care. Commonly reported barriers to care among individuals with PLEs are stigma, beliefs about care, and the cost of services. This study aimed to address gaps in understanding this population’s decision-making processes regarding mental health care utilization (MHCU).Methods:Associations between PLEs and perceived need for care, interest in care, and barriers to care among 931 young adults were explored.Results:PLEs were positively associated with self-perceived need for care, a need for care that was perceived by others, and interest in seeking mental health care. Stigma was a commonly reported barrier to care among those with PLEs.Conclusions:The results suggested that PLEs have an impact on the mental health care decision-making process. Future work should explore the effects of efforts to reduce stigma related to MHCU in this population.