2020 Volume 91 Issue 2 Pages 142-148
This research study investigated the similarities and differences in help-seeking intentions for depression and recognition of the effectiveness of help-seeking among Japanese university students and Chinese international students. Data were collected from 389 Japanese students and 284 Chinese international students. Based on a scenario on depression that was provided, each student was asked about their help-seeking intentions and their recognition of the effectiveness of several help-seeking resources. In descending order, both groups valued the effectiveness of a friend, counselor and family member more than other options. Both groups were more likely to choose friend, family member or handling matters themselves over seeking help from mental health professions. Japanese students had higher valuation of help-seeking resources when “handle matters themselves” was not included as an option than Chinese international students. However, Japanese students showed higher intention of handling matter themselves. This result implies that Chinese international students are more likely to seek help if services are provided for them even though they do not value the effectiveness of help-seeking resources as much as Japanese students.
