Validating a positive mental health measure with portuguese adolescents and exploring associations with mental health perceived competencies

Abstract

Background: Positive mental health involves hedonic well-being (pleasure) and eudaimonic well-being (positive functioning). This construct can be assessed using the Positive Mental Health Questionnaire. Aims: This study sought to validate the short version of the Positive Mental Health Questionnaire for Portuguese adolescents, to assess positive mental health, perceived mental health competencies and sociodemographic factors, and to examine the correlations among these variables. Methods: An online survey with 514 secondary school students included sociodemographic questions, the Positive Mental Health Questionnaire and the Self-Assessment Scale of Basic Mental Health Action Competencies. Psychometric evaluations, descriptive analyses and linear regressions were conducted. Results: The Positive Mental Health Questionnaire demonstrated good item sensitivity, robust fit indices of the data collected concerning the previously recognised factorial structure, good internal consistency in factors, appropriate indicators of divergent and convergent validity, and test-retest reliability. Intermediate levels of positive mental health and good levels of perceived competence in mental health were found in adolescents. Older age and greater perceived knowledge about mental health, combined with less prior training in the area, contributed to higher eudaimonic well-being. Hedonic well-being was higher among those with a greater perception of self-care in mental health and less prior experience with mental health problems. Positive mental health was not significantly influenced by previous contact with individuals experiencing mental health problems or by the perception of mental health first aid. Conclusions: The Positive Mental Health Questionnaire proved to be a tool with good psychometric properties, adequately assessing adolescents' needs and the outcomes of mental health promotion initiatives. This work has also highlighted an opportunity to optimise adolescents' positive mental health, specifically in self-control, autonomy, and interpersonal relationship skills. Adolescents should be encouraged to care for their mental health and be informed that interacting with people with mental health problems does not present a significant risk to them. Through mental health training, adolescents' functioning can be enhanced over time, relying on the recognition of acquired skills. Findings can inform school-based and community strategies to promote adolescent mental health.