Determinants of mental health knowledge and attitudes among nurses in general hospitals in Myanmar

Mental illness is a major global health burden, contributing to significant disability and reduced functioning, with persistent gaps in access to quality mental health care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Myanmar, where specialist mental health services remain limited, nurses in general hospitals play a central role in mental health care delivery. This study aimed to identify determinants of mental health knowledge and attitudes towards mental illness among nurses in general hospitals in Myanmar. A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to September 2025 among 431 nurses from four general hospitals in the Sagaing Region, Myanmar. Mental health knowledge was assessed using the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule (MAKS), attitudes towards mental illness were assessed using the Mental Illness: Clinicians’ Attitudes Scale (MICA-4), and role support was assessed using the Role Support subscale of the Mental Health Problems Perceptions Questionnaire. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with mental health knowledge and attitudes towards mental illness. Participants demonstrated a mean MAKS score of 52.04 (SD = 5.72) and generally positive attitudes towards mental illness. Awareness of mental health services and policies, working experience as well as role support were significantly associated with higher mental health knowledge. Attitudes towards mental illness were associated with higher educational levels, awareness of mental health services, mental health knowledge, and role support. Knowledge was the strongest determinant of attitudes ( β =-0.353, P < 0.001). Unexpectedly, nurses without psychiatric nursing training demonstrated more positive attitudes towards mental illness. Nurses in general hospitals in Myanmar demonstrate generally favorable mental health knowledge and attitudes towards mental illness. Mental health knowledge and attitudes were influenced by awareness of mental health services and policies, working experience, educational level, psychiatric training, and role support, with knowledge emerging as the strongest determinant of attitudes. Strengthening mental health education and supportive organizational workplace may help reduce stigma and improve the quality of mental health care. Not applicable.