Mental Health Literacy and its Relationship with Positive Mental Health in Iranian Adolescents

Background: Adolescents’ mental health can have significant effects on their well-being; Inadequate Mental Health Literacy (MHL) is also a global concern. The present study investigated Mental Health Literacy and its relationship with positive mental health in Iranian adolescents. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in Saveh, a city in the center of Iran, between April 15, 2023 to May 25, 2023. A total number of 400 adolescents in 8 schools were selected through a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. Mental health literacy and positive mental health were measured using the Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire (KAMHS) and the 14-item Mental Health Continuum Short Form (MHC-SF) questionnaire. The parameters linked to mental health literacy were found using a hierarchical multiple linear regression model. SPSS version 22 was used to analyze the data. Results: The study results revealed that approximately half of the participants (52.5%) had moderate mental health. The mean and standard deviation of mental health literacy scores were 89 and 8.7, respectively. Gender (P=0.041), father’s level of education (P=0.043), mother’s level of education (P=0.031), father’s employment status (P=0.023), family income (P=0.035), familiarity with those with mental illness (P=0.01), and mental health status (P=0.005) were associated with mental health literacy. Also, results indicated significant differences in MHL (P=0.01) and good mental health behaviors (P=0.04), avoidance coping (P=0.03), and knowledge (P 0.001). Conclusions: It is essential to implement suitable educational programs to improve the mental health status and mental health literacy of adolescents. The mental health status of individuals can act as a catalyst in promoting mental health literacy.