Psychological symptom risk in older adults in Türkiye is associated with mental health literacy and demographic-clinical factors

A BMC Geriatrics study by Turan, Aydaş and Canbulat reports that lower mental health literacy, multiple chronic conditions, and weaker social ties were associated with higher psychological symptoms among older adults in Türkiye; the authors noted cultural stigma and advocated for policy and provider training.

Researchers in Türkiye examined factors linked to psychological symptoms in older adults. The study, by N. Turan, S.B. Aydaş and Ş. Canbulat, was published in BMC Geriatrics. It explored how mental health literacy interacts with demographic and clinical characteristics. The research combined quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to capture both prevalence and lived experience. Key findings: - Lower mental health literacy was reported alongside higher levels of psychological symptoms, and literacy varied by education, socio-economic status, and access to healthcare. - Presence of multiple chronic illnesses and challenges with medication adherence were associated with higher reports of anxiety and depression. - Stronger social networks were linked with fewer psychological symptoms among older adults. - Cultural stigma in Türkiye was identified as a barrier to recognizing mental health needs and seeking support. - The authors reported their results as a basis for policy-level attention and for training healthcare providers to communicate about mental health with older patients. Summary: The study highlights connections between mental health literacy, physical health, social ties, and psychological symptom risk in older adults in Türkiye. The authors reported disparities by education and socio-economic status and noted cultural barriers to help-seeking, and they advocated for policy and provider-focused responses. Undetermined at this time.