Is PMS related to willingness to seek professional help for mental health?

Background: This study examines the relationship between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the attitude toward seeking professional psychological help among Omani college students. Method: This study used a cross-sectional design with a convenience sampling approach. The date was issued between January and March 2024. A sample of 601 undergraduate female students completed the study questionnaires, including (1) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (2) the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale and (3) the attitude toward seeking professional psychological distress scale. Results: The study included 601 eligible participants of age 18-29 years who were mostly single (83.7%) and living on campus (68.6%). PMS prevalence was high at 87.9%, with a mean score of 109.4, indicating low severity for most (62.1%). Participants generally had positive attitudes toward seeking psychological help (41.6% high willingness). A linear regression showed a positive link between PMS severity and help-seeking attitudes. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant association between the experiences of PMS and attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help among Omani female undergraduate students. With a high prevalence of PMS reported, the findings suggest that cultural factors and support systems play crucial roles in shaping these attitudes. The positive inclination toward seeking help indicates a growing awareness of mental health issues within this demographic. Enhancing mental health services and fostering supportive environments in educational settings can further empower students to address PMS-related challenges.

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