From stigma to literacy: Examining the underlying forces shaping mental health awareness among university students

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing mental health awareness among students at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kelantan. With increasing concerns over mental health issues in higher education, understanding the determinants of awareness is crucial for developing effective interventions. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from 109 students across various programme using a structured questionnaire. The study examined three independent variables: attitude towards mental health, knowledge of mental health issues, and media exposure. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis via SPSS, and the findings revealed that all three variables significantly influence students’ awareness of mental health. Among them, attitude towards mental health emerged as the strongest predictor, followed by knowledge and media exposure. These results suggest that fostering positive attitudes, improving mental health literacy, and promoting responsible media engagement can enhance awareness among university students. The study provides valuable insights for educators, mental health practitioners, and policymakers in designing targeted mental health promotion strategies within university settings.