Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Community-Based Mental Health Support System

Mental health is an essential component of overall well‑being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and function in their daily lives. Recognizing the importance of community involvement in promoting mental wellness, this study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of stakeholders regarding the community‑based mental health support system in Barangay Limao, Island Garden City of Samal. The study employed a quantitative approach using a descriptive correlational research design. A total of 133 stakeholders were selected from a population of 200 through purposive sampling, comprising adolescents, parents or guardians, teachers, health professionals, and local government officials. Data were gathered using a modified survey questionnaire and analyzed using appropriate statistical tools through statistical software. Findings revealed that stakeholders generally demonstrated a high level of knowledge and a great extent of practices related to community‑based mental health support systems, while their attitudes were only moderately developed. Knowledge was strongest in areas related to help‑seeking and mental health first aid, whereas awareness of government programs and barangay‑level roles appeared relatively weaker. Although stakeholders valued mental health and recognized the importance of available services, lower levels of trust and participation were observed in organized community‑based activities. Results further showed no significant relationship between knowledge and practices, indicating that knowledge alone does not necessarily translate into action. Moreover, no significant difference in attitudes was found when respondents were grouped by sex; however, significant differences were observed based on age, highest educational attainment, and category of stakeholders, with adolescents demonstrating less positive attitudes compared to adult groups. Overall, the study highlights the need for targeted, age‑responsive, and role‑specific interventions to strengthen attitudes, enhance community participation, and improve the effectiveness of community‑based mental health support systems.