Secrecy versus disclosure of mental illness among adolescents: II. The perspective of relevant stakeholders

Abstract

Background: The burden of mental illness (MI) is exacerbated when adolescents with MI are confronted with stigma and social exclusion. Adolescents face the difficult decision whether or not to disclose their MI. Focus groups (FGs) were conducted with parents of adolescents with MI as well as with teachers, mental health professionals (MHPs) and adolescents without MI.

Aim: To collect information from relevant stakeholders on secrecy versus disclosure of MI among adolescents.

Methods: Thirteen FG sessions with 87 participants were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify major themes.

Results: Selective disclosure and social media as a potential way of disclosure emerged as dominant themes. Negative aspects of disclosure on social media were discussed. Stigma and labeling were seen as disadvantages of disclosure. Social support was perceived as one advantage of disclosure. Distinctive features of adolescence, such as self-discovery, appeared as specific problems. Parents, teachers, MHPs and adolescents without MI were considered important for disclosure. Participants discussed how to help adolescents with their dilemma between disclosure and secrecy.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that disclosure decisions are personal and influenced by the individual's environment. Implications for interventions that aim to support adolescents with MI in this regard are discussed.

Keywords: Mental illness; adolescents; disclosure; focus groups; mental health condition; stakeholders.