The Process of Seeking Treatment for Mental Health Problems.

A model of the process of seeking treatment for mental health problems is presented that explicates much previous research in this area. A process comprising seven steps is proposed (recognize that there is a problem, decide the problem is mental health related, decide change is needed, make efforts to effect change, decide professional help is needed to effect change, decide to seek professional help, and seek help). Activities or decisions that interrupt the process, barriers encountered at each step, variations of the proposed sequence, and the experience of social support across the process are presented. Implications for improving access to treatment are proposed.