| Sumario: | Objective: The current study examined how college students search online for mental health information and the impact of these searches on mental health literacy, stigma, and help-seeking. Method: Undergraduate participants (N = 270; Fall 2015 to Spring 2019) were randomly assigned to search online for information about coping with anxiety for themselves or a friend (experimental activity), or to utilize Google Maps to answer navigational questions (control). Results: Participants who conducted an online search demonstrated greater mental health literacy including optimism about psychotherapy, and lower levels of certain types of stigma, but lower willingness to seek/recommend professional help. Participants were more likely to recommend professional help for a friend compared to themselves. Conclusions: Online searches for mental health information have the potential to increase mental health literacy. Universities can harness the Internet to reduce help-seeking barriers but should also address when it is appropriate to engage in self-help versus seek professional help.
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