Asian Together’s Month May 2024: South Asian Mental Health

By Sajal Shetty,

Written by Sajal Shetty

South Asian Mental Health

In South Asia, mental health can be an especially difficult topic. 1 in 7 individuals living in South Asia report having an anxiety or mood disorder in their lifetime. Cultural stigmas, coupled with high parental expectations and pressure, abuse and neglect, inappropriate knowledge, high population density, and lack of education and awareness can make it even more challenging for members of this community to receive the support they need. It's essential that we raise awareness and break down stigmas around mental health in South Asia. This can help to promote greater understanding and access to care for those in need. Mental health professionals must also be aware of the cultural and social contexts of their patients and provide care that is sensitive to their needs. Studies on South Asian immigrant females have shown a high propensity to self-harm and certain mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, and eating-related psychopathology. Many individuals have been victims of hiding their mental illness because of fearing what “people will think” or how it would “affect their family’s image”. For example, mental illness may be seen as a weakness, or individuals may be encouraged to "tough it out" rather than seek professional help. This stigma can simply exacerbate mental health issues, as individuals who do not seek help may struggle with mental health issues in silence, potentially leading to more severe mental health concerns or even suicide. 

What  are the barriers to mental health care?

One of the most significant barriers to mental health care in the South Asian community is the lack of understanding around mental illness. Many individuals may not recognize the signs of mental illness or may dismiss them as a personal weakness. It's important to educate individuals and families about the signs of mental illness and encourage them to seek professional help. Many individuals may struggle to communicate their symptoms because they are afraid to open up or understand the care they are receiving. Finally, we must address the unique stressors that South Asian individuals may face. Whether related to family obligations, immigration status, discrimination, or generational conflicts, these stressors can have a significant impact on mental health. It's essential that we provide support services that are sensitive to these challenges and help individuals navigate them.

Citations

Mental Health Facts, https://www.sapha.org/resources/mental-health-facts/, SAPHA

Prevalence of Common Mental Disorders in South Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492672/, National Library of Medicine