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The Impact of Cultural and Financial Stigma on Mental Health: Investigating Help Seeking Behavior in Saudi Arabi
Baalfaqih, Khadijah
Baalfaqih, Khadijah
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Abstract
Mental health stigma continues to pose a critical barrier to psychological support in Saudi Arabia,
particularly when compounded by financial constraints. This study explores how economic factors
such as high treatment costs, insufficient insurance coverage, and financial dependency contribute
to the stigma surrounding mental health and reduce individuals' willingness to seek professional
help. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 256 Saudi adults through a
culturally adapted Arabic version of the Mental Illness Associated Stigma (MIAS) scale. The
analysis revealed that 66.4% of participants identified financial burden as a primary barrier to
accessing care, while 91.1% reported that the cost of treatment affects service accessibility.
Multiple-response questions answers reinforced these findings, highlighting cultural
misconceptions, social stigma, and limited awareness as intersecting obstacles. This research
underscores the importance of addressing both economic and cultural dimensions of stigma and
calls for policy reforms, including mandatory insurance coverage, national mental health vouchers,
and culturally sensitive awareness campaigns. The findings align with Saudi Vision 2030 and
advocate for systemic interventions to improve mental health care access and equity across the
Kingdom