Breaking the Silence: Barriers and Facilitators to Mental Health Service Utilization in Diverse Populations

Abstract: Mental health disorders represent a significant global public health challenge, contributing substantially to disability, reduced quality of life, and economic burden. Despite the growing availability of mental health services, utilization rates remain disproportionately low across many populations. Understanding the barriers that prevent individuals from accessing care, as well as the facilitators that promote service use, is essential for developing effective mental health policies, interventions, and nursing practices. This review article aims to critically examine the multifaceted barriers and facilitators influencing mental health service utilization at individual, socio-cultural, economic, and systemic levels. Drawing upon existing literature, the review highlights stigma, lack of awareness, financial constraints, workforce shortages, and policy gaps as major barriers, while social support, mental health literacy, integrated care models, digital innovations, and culturally sensitive services emerge as key facilitators. The role of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in bridging gaps and enhancing service accessibility is emphasized. This article provides evidence-based insights to inform practice, policy development, and future research, with a focus on improving equitable access to mental health care.