How much is enough?:

: establishing a cut-off score for the mental health literacy questionnaire: short version for adults (MHL-SVa)

Abstract

This study aims to establish a cut-off score for the Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire - Short Version for Adults (MHLq-SVa), to improve the interpretation of results and guide interventions in the field of mental health literacy. A modified Angoff method was used, involving sixteen experts from 14 countries, ensuring a culturally diverse input. The standard-setting process consisted of iterative rounds, combining estimated scores for respondents with a minimally sufficient level of knowledge and item importance ratings (for weighted scoring), along with the presentation of aggregated feedback. A global cut off score of 63 was established, distinguishing individuals with sufficient mental health literacy from those who may benefit from further education. Dimension-specific thresholds were also defined: Knowledge of Mental Health Problems (23), Erroneous Beliefs/Stereotypes (13), Help-Seeking and First-Aid Skills (13), and Self-Help Strategies (15). These thresholds allow for a more nuanced interpretation of mental health literacy profiles, identifying specific strengths and areas for improvement. These findings offer a valuable benchmark for assessing mental health literacy, supporting the identification of individual and group-level needs, informing interventions, and enhancing their cultural relevance. Future research should focus on developing additional items to explore score gradations that more accurately reflect different levels of mental health literacy.

Date of Award	14 Jul 2025
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Luísa Campos (Supervisor) & Pedro Dias (Co-Supervisor)