LEARN

What is mental health?

According to the world health organization (WHO), mental

health is a state of mental wellbeing that enables people to

cope with the stress of life, realize their abilities, learn well

and work well, and contribute to their community.

Mental health is a
basic human right. And it is
crucial to personal, community
and socioeconomic development.

Cultural Perspectives

Oftentimes, in South Asian families, individuals can feel the

pressure to sacrifice their personal desires for the expectations

of their family. Historically, there are a number of reasons why

mental health could possibly be stigmatized within the South

Asian community including the following concepts:

Collectivism

South Asian communities are

collectivist, valuing family cohesion,

solidarity, and interdependence over

the individual. This can lead to a taboo

against speaking about mental health

issues, as families may not consider

them appropriately.

Resiliency

Asian cultures value resiliency, which

can lead to mental health stigma when people repress their needs out of fear

of showing weakness

Intergenerational conflict

Older Asian Americans may have

experienced traumatic events such as

immigration, racism, family conflict,

and financial stress

Adapting to Western Society

South Asians may experience stress

adapting to Western society, which

can contribute to mental health stigma.

Sacrifice personal desires

South Asians may experience pressure to sacrifice personal desires for family

expectations

Feeling misunderstood

Often, South Asian patients may have

difficulty finding care providers who

understand and focus on their specific

treatment needs.

Among older members of South Asian communities, there is often a general lack of

awareness regarding mental health symptoms. In many cases, members of those

communities may fail to recognize the presence of even severe mental health symptoms

and warning signs due to a lack of overall awareness of those symptoms. While younger

people in South Asian communities are now more likely, in general, to discuss mental

health,their parents and other adult members of the family may not fully recognize the

symptoms in front of them.

Modern Shifts

Right now, there has been work towards a noticeable shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed within the community.

The following are a few reasons why mental health stigma is getting better among South Asians:

1.

Increase awareness through globalization & social media

The rise of social media and increased global connectivity

have exposed South Asian communities to broader mental

health discussions. Younger generations are using platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to share personal

stories, raise awareness, and advocate for mental health

support. These platforms allow South Asians to access

mental health information in a way that breaks geographical and cultural barriers.

3.

Intergenerational Dialogue

Younger South Asians are becoming more open about

discussing mental health issues with their parents and

elders, challenging longstanding taboos. The second

generation is more likely to question traditional beliefs and mental health misconceptions. Although older generations may still hold traditional views (such as equating mental

illness with personal weakness or spiritual punishment),

these discussions have sparked more empathy and

understanding within families.

2.

There is better

access to healthcareresources

Increased access to online resources, such as therapy apps, counseling platforms, and mental health organizations, has

empowered South Asians to seek help discreetly. This

reduces the fear of community judgment and offers a way

for individuals to access care without confronting the

in-person stigma of visiting a mental health professional.

Stigma & Myths

Oftentimes, in South Asian families, individuals can feel the

pressure to sacrifice their personal desires for the expectations

of their family. Historically, there are a number of reasons why

mental health could possibly be stigmatized within the South

Asian community including the following concepts:

Mental health issues are a sign of personal weakness or failure.

Myth

Mental health issues are medical conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of their personal strength or character.

Truth

Seeking help is a proactive step towards recovery and should be supported as it can greatly improve an individual's well-being and family dynamics.

Seeking help for mental health problems brings shame to the family.

Mental Health professionals can help with a wide range of issues, from stress and anxiety to more severe conditions, and seeing them does not mean someone is "crazy."

Only "crazy" people need to see a psychiatrist or therapist.

Mental health problems can be just as serious as physical health issues and can significantly impact an individual's overall health and quality of life.

Mental health problems are not as serious as physical health problems.

Children and teenagers can experience mental health issues, and early intervention is crucial for effective treatment and support.

Children and teenagers cannot have mental health problems.

Talking about mental health can help reduce stigma, promote understanding, and provide essential support.

Talking about mental health will make the problem worse.

Medications prescribed for mental health conditions can be effective and are often necessary for treatment. They are carefully managed by healthcare professionals to minimize risks.

Medication for mental health issues is always harmful or addictive.

Keeping mental health issues private can prevent individuals from getting the help they need. Open discussions can lead to better support and resources.

Mental health issues should be kept private and not discussed outside the family.

Mental health conditions are complex and often require professional treatment and support. They cannot simply be overcome by willpower alone.

You can just "snap out" of a mental health condition if you try hard enough.

Mental health issues can affect anyone; regardless of their education level, success, or socioeconomic status.

Mental health issues do not affect successful or educated people.

Gender & Mental Health

Why is there a lack of gender representation in this project? This in and of itself brought up a crucial rabbit-hole into how men are less likely to be willing to talk about their mental health struggles than women.

Gender shapes how mental health is perceived and addressed. For many South Asian men, societal and cultural pressures create unique challenges to openly addressing their mental health.

1.

Cultural Expectations and Masculinity

Masculinity in South Asian cultures is deeply tied to traditional roles and expectations. Men are often seen as the primary breadwinners, protectors, and emotional anchors of their families, leaving little room for vulnerability or emotional expression.

Emotional vulnerability is considered a weakness, leading men to suppress their emotions.
The societal image of "success" places immense pressure on men to appear stable and accomplished.

What are some reasons?

2.

Family and Generational Pressures

Family honor and reputation are core values in South Asian communities, often leaving men with the burden of upholding these ideals. Speaking about mental health can be seen as a sign of failure or dishonor, leading to isolation and silence.

Men often feel the need to protect their family’s reputation by staying silent about their struggles.
Generational differences create tension, as younger men are more open to discussing mental health but lack guidance from their elders.

3.

Stigma &

Vulnerability

Stigma around mental health is pervasive in South Asian cultures, particularly for men. Vulnerability is often seen as a flaw rather than a strength, perpetuating cycles of silence and emotional suppression.

Speaking up is often viewed as dishonorable or weak.
Men who acknowledge their struggles may face judgment from family, friends, and their broader community.
Societal stigma prevents many men from accessing therapy or professional help.

Past

Present

Future

Silence, pressure, and stigma

Growing awareness

with existing tension

Moving towards open conversations