Barriers, perception, and attitudes of adult Saudis regarding mental health services: a survey

Abstract Purpose To present the barriers, perceptions, and attitudes in accessing mental health services (MHS) among adult Saudi residents. Methods In this 2025 cross-sectional survey, a closed-ended questionnaire was used to understand awareness, attitudes, practices, perceived barriers, and enablers for seeking MHS. The determinants of the perceived need for MHS were compared with those of individuals who did not perceive a need for MHS. Results Our survey included 502 adults. The rate of availing and perceived need for MHS among surveyed adult participants was 17.7% (95% CI 14.2; 21.2) and 37.8% (95% CI 33.6; 42.1), respectively. The MHS need was significantly higher among Saudi participants compared to non-Saudi participants [OR = 2.66, 95% CI 1.8–3.9, P < 0.001]. Confidentiality (49%), lower cost (42.4%), and accessibility (43.8%) were leading enablers. The perceived challenges were accessibility and affordability, level of comfort, and effectiveness of MHS. The enablers ( P = 0.84) and challenges ( P = 0.53) were not significantly different among those with and without perceived need for MHS. The age group of 26 to 35 ( P < 0.001), Saudi participants ( P < 0.001), highly educated ( P = 0.002), and employed ( P = 0.04) were associated with perceived need for MHS. Age group was the only significant predictor of MHS need. Conclusions The gap between perceived need and MHS availing among adults is substantial. The ‘26–35’ age group seems to be more vulnerable to MH issues needing interventions. The identified barriers and enablers could help in strengthening MHS for adults, mainly in the study area.