Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

Depression, Help-Seeking Behavior

Abstract

The stigma surrounding depression is a well-known barrier to treatment and helpseeking. This embedded mixed-methods study aimed to assess the levels and the interrelationships of perceived depression, depression stigma, and help-seeking behavior among 255 senior high school students in DLSMHSI Dasmarinas, Cavite, Philippines. Participants completed adapted versions of the Depression Stigma Scale, General Help-Seeking Questionnaire, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9, alongside open-ended questions to explore help-seeking patterns. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analyses (p-value ≤ 0.05 considered significant). Results showed that the majority (50.98%) of the students experienced moderate levels of perceived depression, with moderate levels of depression stigma (M = 1.88) reported. High levels of help-seeking were most commonly directed toward friends (M = 5.19), intimate partners (M = 5.00), and mental health professionals (M = 4.85). Qualitative data indicated that the most likely sources in seeking help include friends, parents, and mental health professionals due to perceptions of approachability and trustworthiness. Other relatives/family members, religious leaders, phone helplines, and parents were less favorable due to distrust and fear of judgment. The majority (73.73%) believed that seeking psychological help leads to positive mental health outcomes, including increased comfort and reduced feelings of hopelessness. These findings suggest that while depression stigma remains a significant barrier, there is a positive perception of the effectiveness of seeking psychological help among students. This highlights the need to address depression stigma and continue to promote accessible, trusted help-seeking sources in schools.

First Advisor

Froilan A. Santillan, LPT, MPR

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