Gender and Racial/Ethnic Differences in Use of Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Use Services by Depressed Adults

This study examines depressed adults’ use of mental health services, focusing on Latinos and African Americans. Self-report data for adults meeting CIDI criteria for major depression or dysthymia from the 1997–98 HealthCare for Communities Survey were analyzed. Gender stratified logistic regression models examined the relationship between race/ethnicity and outpatient mental health service use, controlling for sociodemographic, health status, insurance, and geographic characteristics. Latinas and African American women and men exhibited low use of outpatient mental health services. Similar results were observed in an insured subsample. Service use by minorities was more affected by financial and social barriers (e.g., stigma). No gender differences were observed in self-reported barriers to care. Concerted and continued efforts to promote access to mental health services are critical for minority men and women affected by depression; adults may have unmet mental health needs. Other vulnerable populations include older adults especially, men, and men in poor health.