De-Stigmatizing Mental Health in South Asian Communities

What Is Therapy?

Therapy is the treatment of someone with a particular mental illness. It is also referred to as a psychotherapy approach for treating mental health issues by talking to a psychologist, psychiatrist or another mental health provider. Therapy is also known as counselling. It includes a variety of treatments that help a person to identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Usually, therapy takes place in a one-on-one setting or with several patients in the group. Therapy is a positive way to deal with trauma, pain, or any issue one has in life so that one can become a healthier, happier, more peaceful individual.

Historically, up until the 19th century, due to the limited understanding of mental illness, it was viewed as the existence of the supernatural. During the Middle Ages, any abnormal behaviour was associated with demonic possession by the devil and an ‘exorcism’ was performed as a treatment for the patients to ‘cast out the evil residing within’. The beginning of psychiatry as a medical specialisation dates back to the mid-19th century.

Philippe Pinel is considered to be the “father of modern psychiatry”. He is most famous for his humane treatment of the mentally ill, as well as his contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. His work paved the way for modern psychotherapy. After that, Sigmund Freud contributed to the further development of psychology. The practice of psychoanalysis is attributed to Freud, and it became the cornerstone of modern psychodynamic theories and therapeutic practices, profoundly influencing the understanding of the unconscious mind and the development of various therapeutic techniques.

Types of Therapy:

Psychoanalysis (Psychodynamic) Behavioural Therapy Cognitive Therapy Humanistic Therapy Integrative or Holistic Therapy Individual Therapy Group Therapy Online Therapy

Why Is Therapy Needed?

Mental health can become a serious issue if it is not treated properly. Leaving it untreated may lead to serious repercussions such as nervous breakdown, isolation and in extreme cases even death or suicide. Mental illness can affect a person’s daily routine, disrupt their sleep cycle, and interfere with cognition and decision-making powers.

Reasons For Seeking Therapy:

Intense feelings of sadness and/or helplessness Using unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., alcohol, drugs, porn addiction) Undergoing major life changes (e.g., moving to a new country, getting married, career shift) Loss of a loved one Suspecting or experiencing serious mental illness Family issues, such as living in a dysfunctional family

Benefits Of Seeking Therapy:

Therapy is a positive way to deal with trauma, pain, or any issue a person has in life so they can become a healthier, happier, more peaceful person. When a person develops coping skills, learns to let go of negativity, sets healthy boundaries, and begins to approach difficult situations with positivity, they can finally start living a fulfilling life.

Stigmas Around Mental Health In South Asian Communities:

South Asian communities do not take mental health issues very seriously. They have several reasons for rejecting it, they prefer to turn to religion and their cultural beliefs for addressing problems, this approach does not leave any room for them to look for alternative treatments for mental health problems. The stigma associated with seeking therapy for mental health affects even the most educated individuals, often causing them to hesitate in pursuing professional help. In South Asian cultures, mental illness is often shrouded in secrecy and shame. These usually come with a lack of knowledge and education regarding mental illness.

The biggest stigma regarding therapy among South Asian communities is that it’s a ‘West Imported phenomenon’. Another popular stigma is that only those people require therapy who are weak and incapable of handling their lives. Factors like family honour, religious beliefs, and a lack of awareness reinforce these stigmas. This can lead to feelings of isolation, fear of judgment, and delays in seeking treatment.

De-Stigmatizing Mental Health in South Asian Communities:

South Asian communities do not speak openly about mental health issues. It is considered a taboo among these communities. Therefore, addressing someone’s mental health issues is nearly impossible. There should be an open forum or platform where people can easily express their issues without fear of being judged or misunderstood. These days social media can be such a platform where people can gather from all over the world and express their feelings and concerns regarding their mental health issues. This way, others can share their experiences and clear out misconceptions and negativity through facts and figures.

Educate Yourself And Others:

Educating yourself and others on mental health is of prime importance. Through reading material (articles, books, blogs) and listening (podcasts, videos on social media), one can educate oneself about mental health and thus, can, help others as well to educate and inform them and help them de-stigmatize mental health issues.

Normalize Mental Health Treatment:

There is a taboo and stigma regarding seeking therapy, and a lot of people hesitate to go to a therapist. Seeking therapy should be as normal as seeking help for physical health. This can only happen if people are provided with education and awareness about mental health and its significance. This includes access to mental health care, understanding mental health conditions, and ensuring non-discrimination against marginalised communities. By being aware of these factors and working to address them, you can help to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for people seeking mental health support.

Empowering Others Instead Of Shaming Them:

Because of the stigmas attached to therapy and mental health, a lot of people in South Asian communities feel a sense of shame and guilt when seeking help. As mentioned earlier, by providing them with awareness and education, they are able to speak about their mental health issues, thus feeling a sense of empowerment instead of shame. People should be encouraged that talking about their issues with a mental health therapist will not make them weak but powerful.

Be Conscious Of Language:

The language we use can have a big impact on how people perceive and understand mental health. By using inclusive language, you can help create a safe and welcoming environment for clients of all backgrounds and experiences. This can include using person-first language, avoiding judgmental language, and being aware of the impact of language on marginalised communities.

Equity Between Physical And Mental Health:

People with serious mental illness are at a higher risk of developing chronic physical illnesses because mental health issues can severely disrupt daily life, affecting sleep patterns, eating habits, decision-making, and social interactions. The impact of mental illness on physical health is significant, and the relationship works both ways—those with chronic physical conditions are also more likely to develop mental health issues. Therefore, mental health should be given the same level of importance as physical health.

Empowering Change Through Online Therapy:

Mental health challenges are prevalent in South Asian communities, but stigma prevents people from seeking help. Online therapy offers a safe and accessible solution to empower change. Mental health challenges are a global concern, and South Asian communities are no exception. However, cultural stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents individuals from seeking help. This empowers individuals to prioritise their well-being and break the cycle of silence surrounding mental health. Online therapy can be a powerful tool for empowering change.

The Benefits of Online Therapy:

Online therapy offers a safe and convenient way for individuals in South Asian communities to access mental health care.

Discretion and anonymity: Online platforms can provide a sense of privacy that might be preferable to traditional in-person therapy, especially for those who are hesitant to seek help due to cultural stigma. Accessibility: Online therapy removes geographical barriers, making it easier for people in remote areas or with busy schedules to connect with therapists. Cost-effectiveness: Online therapy can be a more affordable option compared to traditional therapy sessions, especially considering transportation costs and potential time off work. Culturally Nuanced Therapists: A growing number of online therapy platforms offer therapists with an understanding of South Asian cultures and backgrounds.

Conclusion

By embracing online therapy and working together to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health, South Asian communities can create a significant shift towards a more supportive environment for emotional well-being. Increased awareness, education, and open communication are the cornerstones of this change. Educational initiatives can eliminate cultural misconceptions and replace them with accurate information about mental health conditions and available support systems. This will promote a sense of understanding and reduce the shame often associated with seeking therapy.

For individuals hesitant due to cultural stigma or practical limitations, online platforms such as Therapy Is Brown offer a safe and accessible space to connect with qualified therapists. This empowers individuals to prioritise their mental health and seek professional help without compromising privacy or convenience. The combined effort of increased awareness, open communication, and the accessibility of online therapy can empower individuals within South Asian communities to prioritise their mental well-being. This collaborative approach paves the way for better mental health care and can lead to positive social outcomes for the South Asian community.