Objective:

To examine mental-health knowledge, public stigma, and social acceptance among adults in GCC countries using validated instruments.

Approach:

• Survey Methodology: An Arabic-language online survey was completed by 1,557 adults, with descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multiple linear regression conducted.
• Instruments Used: The study utilized the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule (MAKS), the Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale (RIBS), and the Community Attitudes toward the Mentally Ill (CAMI) scale.

Key Findings:

• Participants reported moderate mental-health knowledge (MAKS M = 41.6, SD = 5.9).
• Moderately positive attitudes were observed (CAMI M = 135.2, SD = 16.2).
• Moderate behavioural willingness was indicated (RIBS M = 13.1, SD = 3.2).
• Knowledge and attitudes were moderately correlated (r = .341, p < .001).
• Social restrictiveness was the strongest predictor of behavioural engagement (β = .374, p < .001).

Interpretation:

The findings suggest a disconnect between positive attitudes towards mental health and hesitance regarding close social contact.

Limitations:

• The sample was predominantly Kuwaiti, female, and university-educated, which may limit generalizability.
• The original four-factor CAMI structure showed poor fit, indicating caution in interpretation.

Conclusion:

The study indicates a disconnect between attitudes and behavioural willingness regarding mental health.