The influence of social network on the willingness to seek formal and informal help

Background/Objectives: The focus of mental health care has shifted from institutionalized care towards community care. While managed care has reduced the levels and duration of formal care, extra pressure is put on informal care. The social influence of significant others may be an important factor in the help-seeking process. The amount of social support and social capital one has access to may influence the balance between formal and informal care. Consequently, significant others may deter people with mental health problems from seeking formal treatment, or they may support this process. The first question is…