Self-recognition of mental disorders and mental problems in the adult population from the Colombian National Mental Health Survey

Introduction and objectives: Mental disorders are very prevalent in the general population. Despite this, it is estimated that only about a third of the people affected is able to recognise problems on their own and to access health services. The aim was to determine the factors associated with the lack of self-recognition of mental problems and disorders in the Colombian population. Methods: The National Mental Health Survey (ENSM-2015) conducted in Colombia identified adults over 18 years that answered “yes’ to the question ‘Have you had a mental problem or disorder?’, had a positive score in mental disorders measured by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) 3.0, or in mental problems detected by the SRQ-20. A bivariate analysis, as well as a logistic regression, were performed with possible related variables. Results: A sample of 10, 870 adults was obtained, of whom 12.25% (1,332) had mental disorders and 30.2% (3282) had mental problems. Of those individuals with disorders and problems, 7.9% recognised themselves as affected. The variables associated with self-recognition of disorders or problems were, among others: being female (OR = 1.8; 95%CI, 1.4-2.3), family dysfunction (OR = 1.5; 95%CI, 1.2-2.0), to have experienced a traumatic event (OR = 1.8; 95%CI, 1.4-2.2), illegal substance consumption (OR = 0.5; 95%CI, 0.4-0.7), not being poor (OR = 1.9; 95%CI, 1.2-3.0), and having chronic illnesses (OR = 1.6; 95%CI, 1.3-2.1). Conclusions: Self-recognition is of great relevance to improve access to care by adults. The results provide associated variables that allow planning interventions that can promote the recognition of mental problems or disorders in this population.