Health Knowledge, Attitudes, and Public Perceptions of Mental Illness in Morocco: Implications for Vulnerable Patients

Background:
Psychiatric patients are among the most socially vulnerable populations. Public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about mental illness strongly influence access to care, engagement, and social support. Understanding these factors is essential to provide socially and clinically relevant psychiatric care.

Objective:
To assess health knowledge, attitudes, and public perceptions of mental illness among the Moroccan population and explore their implications for the social vulnerability of psychiatric patients.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among a representative sample of the Moroccan population. Participants completed a short Arabic version of the Social Distance Scale (SDS) to measure stigma and social distance. They were also presented with brief vignettes describing individuals with psychiatric disorders and asked to rate their comfort interacting socially. Additionally, a few general knowledge questions assessed awareness and misconceptions about mental illness. Demographic data were collected to explore associations with attitudes and knowledge.

Results:
Preliminary findings indicate a high prevalence of stigmatizing attitudes and social distance toward psychiatric patients. Vignette responses revealed discomfort in interacting with individuals with severe mental illness, highlighting barriers to social inclusion. Knowledge gaps and misconceptions about mental illness were common, particularly regarding causes and treatment.

Conclusion
Public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions contribute significantly to the social vulnerability of psychiatric patients. Understanding these factors allows clinicians to adapt communication, reduce stigma, and provide care that is socially and clinically relevant.
References:
Al-Adawi, S., et al. (2002). Stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental illness in Oman. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 48(4), 305–317.
Okasha, A., et al. (2012). Attitudes of the Egyptian public toward mental illness. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 58(2), 136–143
Crisp, A. H., Gelder, M. G., Rix, S., Meltzer, H. I., & Rowlands, O. J. (2000). Stigmatisation of people with mental illnesses. British Journal of Psychiatry, 177, 4–7.
Al-Krenawi, A., & Graham, J. R. (2000). Stigmatization of mental illness in Arab culture. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 46(2), 87–101.

Azeddagh hasnae