In the field of mental health, the expression of a health care need and use of health care services are complex phenomena. This article draws on data from the EpiCov survey (Epidemiology and Living Conditions during COVID-19) to estimate the proportion of the French population who have expressed a mental health care need, as well as the proportion who have not consulted a health professional for mental health reasons despite expressing such a need. Bivariate statistics and multivariable models are used to identify the principal factors associated with expression of a need and absence of consultation. A dedicated literature review underpins the analysis.
The study finds that some 14% of the population express a mental health care need. Of these, one fifth report not having sought care; this situation is most common among young people, individuals of non-European origin, and those with little social support. The disparities that emerge in the expression of need and the use of health care for mental health reasons appear to be more closely associated with differences in cultural capital than with economic inequalities.