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Bañada R, Jang Y, Palinkas LA. Willingness to use mental health counseling in diverse groups of Asian Americans. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306064. [PMID: 39058706 PMCID: PMC11280139 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Responding to the underutilization of mental health services in Asian American communities, we examined factors associated with their willingness to use mental health counseling. Applying Andersen's Behavioral Health Service Model, we focused on the role of mental health needs and prior use of mental health counseling in shaping the attitudes toward mental health counseling of diverse groups of Asian Americans. We conducted a secondary analysis of data from 2,609 Asian Americans aged 18 or older who participated in the Asian American Quality of Life (AAQoL) survey conducted in central Texas. Logistic regression models of willingness to use mental health counseling were tested with predisposing (age, gender, marital status, education, nativity, and English-speaking ability), mental health needs (mental distress and self-rated mental health) and enabling (prior use of mental health counseling) variables. About 67% of the overall sample indicated their willingness to use mental health counseling. Individuals who met the criteria for mental distress showed 17% lower odds of willingness to use mental health counseling. The enabling role of prior use of mental health counseling was supported; those who had used counseling were over three times more likely to be willing to use counseling in the future than their counterparts without such an experience. Given the inverse association between mental health needs and the willingness to use mental health counseling, further attention should be paid to improving Asian Americans' recognition of mental health symptoms and awareness of the benefit of mental health services. The enabling role of prior use of counseling also highlights the importance of increasing the exposure to mental health services for Asian Americans. In efforts to promote mental health literacy, reduce cultural stigma, and advocate for mental health service use, consideration of cultural and linguistic diversity within the Asian American population is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronna Bañada
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | - Yuri Jang
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Lawrence A. Palinkas
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States of America
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Mohammadifirouzeh M, Oh KM, Basnyat I, Gimm G. Examining Factors Associated With Intention to Seek Professional Mental Health Support Among First-Generation Iranian Americans. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39024262 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20240712-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Research suggests immigrants are at a greater risk of mental health disorders compared to native-born populations. Thus, the current study investigated factors associated with professional mental help-seeking intention among American immigrants. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted with 207 first-generation Iranian Americans, and data were collected using survey questionnaires. RESULTS Younger Iranians living in western states in the United States and those with positive attitudes toward professional mental health services had greater intention to seek these services. Unexpectedly, those with better mental health literacy (MHL) held more mental health stigma (MHS). CONCLUSION Findings elucidated valuable insights into the complex dynamics among sociodemographic factors, acculturation, MHL, MHS, attitudes, and intentions toward professional mental health help-seeking. We also highlighted the intricate relationship between MHL and MHS, suggesting that strategies to improve MHL may not necessarily mitigate MHS within this community. Therefore, integrating anti-stigma, contact-based approaches to MHL programs could effectively reduce stigma while facilitating mental health help-seeking. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(xx), xx-xx.].
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Fung KPL, Kim S. Commentary: Predictors of professional help-seeking intention toward depression among community-dwelling populations: a structural equation modeling analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1363160. [PMID: 38559398 PMCID: PMC10978789 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1363160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Po-Lun Fung
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Soyeon Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Waypoint Research Institute, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON, Canada
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Dennis CL, Brennenstuhl S, Brown HK, Grigoriadis S, Vigod SN, Marini FC, Fung K. Traditional postpartum rituals among immigrant and non-immigrant Chinese women. Transcult Psychiatry 2024; 61:85-94. [PMID: 37993996 PMCID: PMC10903143 DOI: 10.1177/13634615231213829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Due to cultural and systemic factors, Chinese-Canadians tend to use mental health services less or when mental health problems are more severe. Services need to be more culturally responsive in their treatment of mental illness. Around important life events, when there may be heightened vulnerability to mental illness, this is especially important. In this study, postpartum cultural practices were examined among recent immigrant, longer-term immigrant, and Canadian-born Chinese women. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study of 493 women in Toronto, Ontario, with livebirths in 2011-2014. Participants completed a demographic survey and Postpartum Rituals Questionnaire. Most women (82.2%) practiced at least one postpartum ritual. Younger age (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.87-0.99) and greater participation in the heritage culture (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.02-1.61) were associated with ritual practice. From among five types of postpartum rituals identified (i.e., avoidance of homeostatic disturbances, dietary practices, wind avoidance, organized support, and cold avoidance), dietary practices were most commonly undertaken and cold avoidance was least commonly undertaken. There were differences in postpartum ritual patterns by immigration status, with immigrant women being more likely to undertake a greater number of rituals, to attribute these rituals to Chinese culture, and to ascribe health benefits to these rituals and being less likely to feel forced into performing these rituals. Our findings underscore the importance of clinicians becoming more aware of Chinese postpartum rituals to provide women with culturally competent and patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy-Lee Dennis
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Lunenfeld-Tannenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sarah Brennenstuhl
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hilary K. Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Health and Society, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sophie Grigoriadis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Simone N. Vigod
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Flavia C. Marini
- Lunenfeld-Tannenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kenneth Fung
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Davy B, Riosa PB, Ghassemi E. Understanding the Mental Health Perspectives and Experiences of Migrants to Canada. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 54:52-64. [PMID: 36798040 DOI: 10.1177/27551938231156032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Few researchers have explored Canadian migrants' experiences of mental health and service access. We interviewed 10 migrants to Canada from a local settlement organization about mental health and services and 5 organization staff about their experiences supporting migrants' mental health and service access. Our interviews with migrants revealed cultural perceptions of mental health and unmet service needs. Our focus group with staff indicated challenges experienced by migrants and the tension between their openness with mental health difficulties and stigmatization from their cultural communities. A call to restructure existing mental health support for this underserved population is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Davy
- Department of Applied Disability Studies, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
- Health and Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Vowels LM, Sever Z. Are Digital Interventions the Next Frontier in Sex Therapy? A Mixed Methods Study Examining Attitudes toward Digital Sex Therapy. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 49:1043-1061. [PMID: 37553901 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2023.2243266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Digital health interventions can address governments' aims of providing better care, better outcomes, and lower costs. No previous research has examined attitudes toward digital sex therapy to understand what might facilitate, or hinder, the uptake of these interventions. This sequential mixed-methods study with qualitative structured interviews (n = 27) followed by a quantitative survey (n = 334) aimed to understand participants' expectations and attitudes toward digital sex therapy interventions. Participants reported a mixture of positive and negative attitudes to digital sex therapy. More positive attitudes, higher education level, and previous engagement in therapy predicted greater openness to using these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Vowels
- FAmily and DevelOpment research center (FADO), Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Zoe Sever
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Sever Z, Vowels LM. Beliefs and Attitudes Held Toward Sex Therapy and Sex Therapists. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:1729-1741. [PMID: 36759404 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02532-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing recognition that sexual problems can adversely impact health, well-being, and quality of life. Sex therapy provides individuals with an effective means of understanding, improving, and resolving their sexual difficulties. Yet, few individuals access a sex therapist when experiencing sexual difficulties and research on perceptions toward this service remains limited. The current study aimed to explore attitudes and beliefs held by a sample with a current or previous history of sexual problems toward sex therapy and therapists. A total of 27 individuals aged 19-53 participated in unmoderated structured interviews that were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The results were organized into five categories, (1) overall perceptions of sex therapy, (2) when and for whom is sex therapy, (3) expectations, (4) beliefs about sex therapists, and (5) sources of beliefs. While the results indicated that participants held positive attitudes toward the service and about others seeking sex therapy, none had accessed sex therapy for their previous or current sexual problems. Numerous barriers relating to stigma, cost, and accessibility appeared to hinder the utilization of the service. The inaccurate and unrealistic beliefs about sex therapy and sex therapists highlight the need for increased education regarding the profession, which could reduce barriers and increase accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Sever
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, 2050, Australia.
| | - Laura M Vowels
- FAmily and DevelOpment Research Center (FADO), Insti tute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Haritavorn N, Nimsun C. “Just Hemorrhoids, Not Cancer”: Perceptions of Colorectal Cancer Among Thai Colorectal Cancer Patients. Clin Nurs Res 2022; 31:1091-1099. [DOI: 10.1177/10547738221085609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of mortality among Thais. Understanding patients’ perceptions of colorectal cancer can help in the design of educational programs to enhance awareness of colorectal cancer among Thais. This study aims to elucidate illness explanatory models of colorectal cancer and their perceptions of colorectal cancer through the explanatory model. In-depth interviews with 30 patients about their perceptions and experiences of colorectal cancer were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings show that the patients were unaware of colorectal cancer, had misconceptions regarding colorectal cancer detection and screening; they considered the symptoms to be the result of hemorrhoids, karma, and heredity. Their explanatory model underlies the body of knowledge grounded in the lay explanation which results in perception, beliefs, relative experiences, and approaches to illness management. There is a need for further information about colorectal cancer symptoms to assist symptom recognition through cancer education and screening programs.
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Litalien M, Atari DO, Obasi I. The Influence of Religiosity and Spirituality on Health in Canada: A Systematic Literature Review. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:373-414. [PMID: 33409859 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-020-01148-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The association between religion and health has been the subject of growing interest in academia. However, limited reviews of such studies in Canada exist. The paper systematically reviews and synthesizes existing literature on the relationship between spirituality and health in Canada. Available general databases such as: Medline; Web of Science, PubMed, Sociological abstract, Social Service Abstracts, Google scholar, Humanities International Index, JSTOR, CPI.Q Canadian Periodicals, and American Theological Library Association were searched for the period between 2000 and April 2019 inclusive. Collected data were then systematically analysed for common themes about spirituality and health in Canada. In total, 151 articles were found, but only 128 had relevance with the study objectives. Overall, the analysis showed that religion and spirituality do influence health behaviours, and well-being. However, more gender-based studies need to be conducted to tease out the differences in religion/spirituality and health across different genders, and ethnic groups in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Litalien
- Social Welfare and Social Development, Nipissing University, 100 College Drive, Box 5002, North Bay, ON, P1B 8L7, Canada.
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Salam Z, Odenigbo O, Newbold B, Wahoush O, Schwartz L. Systemic and Individual Factors That Shape Mental Health Service Usage Among Visible Minority Immigrants and Refugees in Canada: A Scoping Review. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2022; 49:552-574. [PMID: 35066740 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-021-01183-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There exists considerable research which reports that mental health disparities persist among visible minority immigrants and refugees within Canada. Accessing mental health care services becomes a concern which contributes to this, as visible minority migrants are regarded as an at-risk group that are clinically underserved. Thus, the purpose of this review is to explore the following research question: "what are the barriers and facilitators for accessing mental health care services among visible immigrants and refugees in Canada?". A scoping review following guidelines proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (International Journal of Social Research Methodology 8(1): 19-32, 2005) was conducted. A total of 45 articles published from 2000 to 2020 were selected through the review process, and data from the retrieved articles was thematically analyzed. Wide range of barriers and facilitators were identified at both the systemic and individual levels. Unique differences rooted within landing and legal statuses were also highlighted within the findings to provide nuance amongst immigrants and refugees. With the main layered identity of being a considered a visible minority, this yielded unique challenges patterned by other identities and statuses. The interplay of structural issues rooted in Canadian health policies and immigration laws coupled with individual factors produce complex barriers and facilitators when seeking mental health services. Through employing a combined and multifaceted approach which address the identified factors, the findings also provide suggestions for mental health care providers, resettlement agencies, policy recommendations, and future directions for research are discussed as actionable points of departure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoha Salam
- Department of Global Health, McMaster University, 1280 Main St. West MDCL 3500, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada.
| | - Odera Odenigbo
- School of Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Spirituality, Saint Paul University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Bruce Newbold
- School of Earth, Environment and Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Olive Wahoush
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lisa Schwartz
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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Fung KPL, Liu JJW, Sin R, Bender A, Shakya Y, Butt N, Wong JPH. Exploring mental illness stigma among Asian men mobilized to become Community Mental Health Ambassadors in Toronto Canada. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2022; 27:100-118. [PMID: 31339347 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2019.1640350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma of mental illness contributes to silence, denial and delayed help seeking. Existing stigma reduction strategies seldom consider gender and cultural contexts. PURPOSE The Strengths in Unity study was a multi-site Canadian study that engaged Asian men in three stigma reduction interventions (ACT, CEE, psychoeducation) and mobilized them as Community Mental Health Ambassadors. Our participants included both men living with or affected by mental illness (LWA) as well as community leaders (CL). This paper will: (1) describe the baseline characteristics of the Toronto participants including their sociodemographic information, mental illness stigma (CAMI and ISMI), attitudes towards social change (SJS), and intervention-related process variables (AAQ-II, VLQ, FMI, Empowerment); (2) compare the differences among these variables between LWA and CL; and (3) explore factors that may correlate with socio-economic status and mental health stigma. RESULTS A total of 609 Asian men were recruited in Toronto, Canada. Both CL and LWA had similar scores on measures of external and internalized stigma and social change attitudes, except that LWA had more positive views about the acceptance and integration of those with mental illness into the community on the CAMI, while CL had a higher level of perceived behavioral control on the SJS. Group differences were also observed between LWA and CL in some process-related variables. Exploratory analysis suggests that younger and more educated participants had lower stigma. CONCLUSION Our findings underscore the importance of engaging both community leaders and people with lived experience as mental health advocates to address stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jenny J W Liu
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rick Sin
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Amy Bender
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto ON, Canada
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Kue J, Szalacha LA, Rechenberg K, Nolan TS, Menon U. Communication Among Southeast Asian Mothers and Daughters About Cervical Cancer Prevention. Nurs Res 2021; 70:S73-S83. [PMID: 34173374 PMCID: PMC8527390 DOI: 10.1097/nnr.0000000000000531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Southeast Asian women have high rates of cervical cancer and yet are among the least likely to be screened. There is sparse literature on communication patterns among Southeast Asian women, specifically related to cervical cancer and Pap test uptake. Little is known about the influence of Southeast Asian mothers and daughters on each other's cervical cancer beliefs and screening behaviors. OBJECTIVES We examined the perceptions of and barriers to cervical cancer screening among Cambodian and Lao mothers and daughters and explored how they converse about women's health issues, specifically cervical cancer and Pap testing. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with Cambodian and Lao mother-daughter dyads, aged 18 years and older, living in a large Midwestern city between February and September of 2015. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize the sample demographic characteristics. Bivariate tests (contingency table analyses, independent t-tests, and Pearson correlations) were conducted to test for differences between the mothers and daughters in demographic characteristics and measures of health status and beliefs. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS In-depth interviews were conducted with three Cambodian and eight Lao mother-daughter dyads. The daughters were significantly more acculturated to English, had greater education, and were mostly employed full time. The mothers and daughters evaluated their health status much the same, their medical mistrust equally, and all of the mothers and nine of the daughters were Buddhist. Themes in mother-daughter communication included what mothers and daughters do and do not talk about with regard to sexual health, refugee experiences, what hinders mother-daughter communication, and relationship dynamics. The mothers were embarrassed and uncomfortable discussing cervical cancer, Pap testing, and other women's health issues with their daughters. Although mothers did not influence women's health promotion or cervical cancer prevention with their daughters, daughters did influence their mothers' health and healthcare decisions. Daughters were critical in navigating healthcare systems, engaging with providers, and making medical decisions on behalf of their mothers. DISCUSSION By leveraging the unique and dynamic intergenerational bond that mothers and daughters who identify as Southeast Asian have, we can develop strategies to influence the cultural dialogue related to cervical cancer and early detection.
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Alidu L, Grunfeld EA. 'What a dog will see and kill, a cat will see and ignore it': An exploration of health-related help-seeking among older Ghanaian men residing in Ghana and the United Kingdom. Br J Health Psychol 2020; 25:1102-1117. [PMID: 32656938 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care utilization rates are lower among men; however, little is known about how men's health care utilization is affected by migration. The aim of this study was to explore health-related help-seeking decisions among older Ghanaian men residing in the United Kingdom and in Ghana. METHODS Twenty-six men aged 50 years or over were recruited from community locations within two large cities in the UK and Ghana. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were undertaken to explore the illness and help-seeking experiences of older men. RESULTS Help-seeking experiences differed among the Ghanaian men living in the UK and in Ghana. Three themes were identified that impacted on help-seeking decisions: (1) pluralistic approaches to managing health and illness and (2) perceptions of formal health services in Ghana and UK and (3) financial constraints and masculinity norms as barriers to help-seeking. CONCLUSION This is the first study to look at help-seeking decisions among older men residing in the UK and Ghana. Findings highlight how older migrant men's explanatory models of their health encompass enduring faith-based beliefs around causation of illness and approaches to management, as well as the use of pluralistic approaches to managing health. This study supports the call for culturally sensitive community-based interventions to increase engagement and facilitate improved health outcomes for migrant populations, particularly older men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lailah Alidu
- Population Evidence and Technology, University of Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Elizabeth A Grunfeld
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck, University of London, London, UK
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Gonçalves M, Matos M. Victimized immigrant women in Portugal: factors associated with formal and informal help-seeking (Las mujeres inmigrantes víctimas de agresión en Portugal: factores asociados a la búsqueda de ayuda formal e informal). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/02134748.2020.1725360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Chen P, Liu XJ, Wang XQ, Yang BX, Ruan J, Liu Z. Attitude Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Among Community-Dwelling Population in China. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:417. [PMID: 32477190 PMCID: PMC7240032 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the attitudes and factors in seeking professional psychological help among a Chinese community-dwelling population in order to promote positive help-seeking behaviors and better utilization of mental health services. METHODS Using system and simple random sampling with Kish selection table methods, 912 community-dwelling residents were included in this study and asked about their attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help, depression symptoms, family function, depression literacy, help-seeking intention, and stigma. RESULTS Scores on the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help scale (ATSPPH-SF) indicated a neutral attitude toward openness to seeking treatment for psychological problems and a negative attitude toward the value and need to seek treatment with a negative total score. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that gender, age, social support (employment status and family function), depression literacy, stigma, and help-seeking intention are significantly associated with attitude toward seeking professional psychological help. CONCLUSION The overall attitude toward seeking professional psychological help is not optimistic, thus, more efforts are needed to enhance understanding. Effective interventions including mental health education, training of mental health professionals, and popularizing the use of mental health services are essential, especially for the at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Chen
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiu Jun Liu
- Affiliated Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong, University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Qin Wang
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | | | - Juan Ruan
- Affiliated Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong, University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhongchun Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Morrow M, Bryson S, Lal R, Hoong P, Jiang C, Jordan S, Patel NB, Guruge S. Intersectionality as an Analytic Framework for Understanding the Experiences of Mental Health Stigma Among Racialized Men. Int J Ment Health Addict 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-019-00140-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Predictors of Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness and Literacy Among Korean-American Women. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2019; 7:1-9. [PMID: 31410785 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-019-00628-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Korean-American women experience a higher incidence of cervical cancer than non-Hispanic White women as well as other Asian-American women. A prominent cause of such a disproportional health risk among Korean-American women is a lack of awareness and knowledge of cervical cancer screening. Identifying factors related to cervical cancer screening awareness and literacy is critical for increasing cervical cancer screening among this population. METHODS Researchers surveyed 230 Korean-American women in a metro area in a Southeastern state, USA. Based on Anderson's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use, predisposing, enabling, and need factors were explored to predict cervical cancer screening awareness and literacy. RESULTS Monthly income, education, English proficiency, and annual checkups had significantly positive associations with cervical cancer screening awareness. Having an acquaintance giving support and receiving an annual checkup had significantly positive relationships with cervical cancer screening literacy. DISCUSSION This study recommends culture specific guidelines to promote annual checkups through primary care physicians and the transfer of information about cervical cancer screening through acquaintances giving support.
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Hoffman SJ, Stich J, Musani S, Robertson CL. "Sleeping in a boundary" constructing the meaning of health in a refugee camp. Health Care Women Int 2019; 40:744-760. [PMID: 30724125 PMCID: PMC7669325 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2019.1568439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Sociopolitical discourses surrounding refugee migration and resettlement are characterized by divisiveness, assumptions, and fear. When these discussions are grounded in the narratives of women refugees a deeper understanding of issues impacting health, family, and resilience emerges. We examine how 26 Karen women living in camps along the Thai-Burma border construct meaning around health, in relation to livelihoods. Through directed content analysis, themes emerged: precursors to achieving health, health and livelihoods, and position and agency. Women identified barriers and facilitators to health, identified a dynamic relationship between health and livelihoods, and described their position and agency in the systems they navigate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaci Stich
- University of Minnesota School of Nursing
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Mental health help-seeking patterns and perceived barriers for care among nulliparous pregnant women. Arch Womens Ment Health 2018; 21:757-764. [PMID: 29846799 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-018-0864-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the patterns of consultation with health providers for emotional symptoms and barriers preventing mental health help-seeking among pregnant women. A total of 652 nulliparous women in their third trimester completed an online questionnaire assessing depressed mood, adjustment in their couple relationship, demographics, help-seeking behaviors for emotional problems and barriers to help-seeking in the past year. The prevalence of having consulted with at least one health provider over the past year for emotional symptoms was 20.1% for the entire sample and 32.7% for the subgroup of women reporting elevated depressive symptoms in the third trimester. Women in the 30-39 age range were more likely to discuss their emotional symptoms with a health provider in the past year compared to younger women (OR = 1.6, CI = 1.0, 2.6, p = 0.041). Among women depressed in the third trimester, being White was independently associated with a greater likelihood of having consulted with a health provider about their emotional symptoms (OR = 2.9, CI = 1.4, 6.1, p = 0.005). Barriers to mental help-seeking included not having gotten around to it (46.1%), being too busy (26.1%), deciding not to seek care (24.3%), cost (22.6%) and not knowing where to go (19.1%). Women with more depressive symptoms in the third trimester endorsed more barriers to mental health service use (β = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.12, p = 0.015). Innovative, evidence-based approaches are needed to more effectively promote mental health during the perinatal period and help women overcome the practical barriers identified to help-seeking.
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Islam F, Khanlou N, Macpherson A, Tamim H. Mental Health Consultation Among Ontario's Immigrant Populations. Community Ment Health J 2018; 54:579-589. [PMID: 29147950 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-017-0210-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To determine the prevalence rates and characteristics of past-year mental health consultation for Ontario's adult (18 + years old) immigrant populations. The Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) 2012 was used to calculate the prevalence rates of past-year mental health consultation by service provider type. Characteristics associated with mental health consultation were determined by carrying out multivariable logistic regression analysis on merged CCHS 2008-2012 data. Adult immigrant populations in Ontario (n = 3995) had lower estimated prevalence rates of past-year mental health consultation across all service provider types compared to Canadian-born populations (n = 14,644). Amongst those who reported past-year mental health consultation, 57.89% of Ontario immigrants contacted their primary care physician, which was significantly higher than the proportion who consulted their family doctor from Canadian-born populations (45.31%). The factors of gender, age, racial/ethnic background, education level, working status, food insecurity status, self-perceived health status, smoking status, alcohol drinking status, years since immigration, and age at time of immigration were significantly associated with past-year mental health consultation for immigrant populations. Ontario's adult immigrant populations most commonly consult their family doctor for mental health care. Potential exists for expanding the mental health care role of primary care physicians as well as efforts to increase accessibility of specialized mental health services. Integrated, coordinated care where primary care physicians, specialized mental health professionals, social workers, and community educators, etc. working together in a sort of "one-stop-shop" may be the most effective way to mitigate gaps in the mental health care system. In order to effectively tailor mental health policy, programming, and promotion to suit the needs of immigrant populations initiatives that focus on the connection between physical and mental health and migration variables such as length of stay in Canada, years since immigration, and other important migration variables (beyond the scope of the CCHS which require further study) need to be developed. Examination of the social determinants of mental health is critical to understand how we can best serve the mental health needs of Ontario's immigrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Islam
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science (KAHS), York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada.
| | | | - Alison Macpherson
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science (KAHS), York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Hala Tamim
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science (KAHS), York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
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Shoesmith WD, Borhanuddin AFBA, Yong Pau Lin P, Abdullah AF, Nordin N, Giridharan B, Forman D, Fyfe S. Reactions to symptoms of mental disorder and help seeking in Sabah, Malaysia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2018; 64:49-55. [PMID: 29103338 DOI: 10.1177/0020764017739643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A better understanding is needed about how people make decisions about help seeking. MATERIALS Focus group and individual interviews with patients, carers, healthcare staff, religious authorities, traditional healers and community members. DISCUSSION Four stages of help seeking were identified: (1) noticing symptoms and initial labelling, (2) collective decision-making, (3) spiritual diagnoses and treatment and (4) psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSION Spiritual diagnoses have the advantage of being less stigmatising, giving meaning to symptoms, and were seen to offer hope of cure rather than just symptom control. Patients and carers need help to integrate different explanatory models into a meaningful whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Diana Shoesmith
- 1 Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | | | - Pauline Yong Pau Lin
- 3 Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Heritage, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Faris Abdullah
- 1 Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Dawn Forman
- 6 Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Sue Fyfe
- 6 Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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22
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Reyes AT, Serafica R, Cross CL, Constantino RE, Arenas RA. Resilience, Acculturative Stress, and Family Norms Against Disclosure of Mental Health Problems Among Foreign-Born Filipino American Women. Asian Pac Isl Nurs J 2018; 3:80-92. [PMID: 31037258 PMCID: PMC6482521 DOI: 10.31372/20180303.1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study explores the relationships between resilience, acculturative stress, and family norms against disclosure of mental health problems among foreign-born Filipino American women. The sample consisted of 159 foreign-born Filipino American women aged 18 years and above and residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. Participants completed paper-and-pencil questionnaires. Results indicated high levels of resilience and moderate levels of acculturative stress. Findings also showed a significant negative correlation between resilience and acculturative stress, and a significant predictive effect of resilience on acculturative stress. We also found a significant negative relationship between resilience and family norms against disclosure of mental health problems but no significant mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between acculturative stress and family norms. This lack of significant findings related to the mediating effect of resilience on the relationship between acculturative stress and family norms against disclosure of mental illness may be due to the absence of theoretical models and research regarding the role of resilience in the context of acculturation among Filipino American women. Our findings imply the need to further explore underlying mechanisms that explain the relationships between resilience, acculturative stress, and family norms. The findings of the study also confirm the need to develop interventions and resources that ameliorate acculturative stress and promote an increase of the disclosure and reporting of mental health problems among Filipino American women.
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Biswas RK, Rahman N, Kabir E, Raihan F. Women's opinion on the justification of physical spousal violence: A quantitative approach to model the most vulnerable households in Bangladesh. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187884. [PMID: 29161277 PMCID: PMC5697832 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bangladesh is a culturally conservative nation with limited freedom for women. A number of studies have evaluated intimate partner violence (IPV) and spousal physical violence in Bangladesh; however, the views of women have been rarely discussed in a quantitative manner. Three nationwide surveys in Bangladesh (2007, 2011, and 2014) were analyzed in this study to characterize the most vulnerable households, where women themselves accepted spousal physical violence as a general norm. 31.3%, 31.9% and 28.7% women in the surveys found justification for physical violence in household in 2007, 2011 and 2014 respectively. The binary logistic model showed wealth index, education of both women and their partner, religion, geographical division, decision making freedom and marital age as significant household contributors for women's perspective in all the three years. Women in rich households and the highly educated were found to be 40% and 50% less likely to accept domestic physical violence compared to the poorest and illiterate women. Similarly, women who got married before 18 years were 20% more likely accept physical violence in the family as a norm. Apart from these particular groups (richest, highly educated and married after 18 years), other groups had around 30% acceptance rate of household violence. For any successful attempt to reduce spousal physical violence in the traditional patriarchal society of Bangladesh, interventions must target the most vulnerable households and the geographical areas where women experience spousal violence. Although this paper focuses on women's attitudes, it is important that any intervention scheme should be devised to target both men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raaj Kishore Biswas
- School of Agricultural, Computational and Environmental Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nusma Rahman
- Department of Statistics, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Enamul Kabir
- School of Agricultural, Computational and Environmental Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Farabi Raihan
- Institute of Research and Training (ISRT), University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Brar-Josan N, Yohani SC. Cultural brokers’ role in facilitating informal and formal mental health supports for refugee youth in school and community context: a Canadian case study. BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2017.1403010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophie C. Yohani
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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25
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Meniru MO, Schwartz RC. The Influence of Afrocentric Spirituality on Counselling Stigma and Help-Seeking Perceptions among Nigerian Americans. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COUNSELLING 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10447-017-9309-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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26
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Yasui M, Pottick KJ, Chen Y. Conceptualizing Culturally Infused Engagement and Its Measurement for Ethnic Minority and Immigrant Children and Families. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2017; 20:250-332. [PMID: 28275923 PMCID: PMC5614708 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-017-0229-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite the central role culture plays in racial and ethnic disparities in mental health among ethnic minority and immigrant children and families, existing measures of engagement in mental health services have failed to integrate culturally specific factors that shape these families' engagement with mental health services. To illustrate this gap, the authors systematically review 119 existing instruments that measure the multi-dimensional and developmental process of engagement for ethnic minority and immigrant children and families. The review is anchored in a new integrated conceptualization of engagement, the culturally infused engagement model. The review assesses culturally relevant cognitive, attitudinal, and behavioral mechanisms of engagement from the stages of problem recognition and help seeking to treatment participation that can help illuminate the gaps. Existing measures examined four central domains pertinent to the process of engagement for ethnic minority and immigrant children and families: (a) expressions of mental distress and illness, (b) causal explanations of mental distress and illness, (c) beliefs about mental distress and illness, and (d) beliefs and experiences of seeking help. The findings highlight the variety of tools that are used to measure behavioral and attitudinal dimensions of engagement, showing the limitations of their application for ethnic minority and immigrant children and families. The review proposes directions for promising research methodologies to help intervention scientists and clinicians improve engagement and service delivery and reduce disparities among ethnic minority and immigrant children and families at large, and recommends practical applications for training, program planning, and policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Yasui
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, 969 E 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Kathleen J Pottick
- School of Social Work and Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 112 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ, 08903, USA
| | - Yun Chen
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, 969 E 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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Opare-Henaku A, Utsey SO. Culturally prescribed beliefs about mental illness among the Akan of Ghana. Transcult Psychiatry 2017; 54:502-522. [PMID: 28612682 DOI: 10.1177/1363461517708120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Mental illness is a culturally laden phenomenon, and different cultures have unique ways of constructing mental illness. In this study, conceptions of mental illness were explored among 30 participants of Akan descent in Ghana through individual and group interviews. Participants demonstrated a wide range of knowledge on mental illness indicating that poor self-care, deficits in social functioning, and disordered behaviors are the cardinal features of mental illness. The data revealed that Akan cultural beliefs influenced notions of etiology of mental illness and care of the mentally ill. While participants recognized the role of multiple factors such as genetics, substance abuse, daily hassles (for example, concerns about basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter), and trauma in the cause of mental illness, the predominant belief was that mental illness is a retributive and/or a spiritual illness. This belief encourages pluralistic health-seeking behaviors: use of hospitals, prayer camps, herbalists, and traditional healers. The implications of these findings for public health education on mental illness, and clinical training and practice are discussed.
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28
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Caxaj CS, Gill NK. Belonging and Mental Wellbeing Among a Rural Indian-Canadian Diaspora: Navigating Tensions in "Finding a Space of Our Own". QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2017; 27:1119-1132. [PMID: 27179022 DOI: 10.1177/1049732316648129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Belonging is linked to a variety of positive health outcomes. Yet this relationship is not well understood, particularly among rural immigrant diasporas. In this article, we explore the experiences of community belonging and wellbeing among a rural Indian-Canadian diaspora in the Interior of British Columbia, Canada, our central research questions being, "What are the experiences of belonging in this community? How does a sense of belonging (or lack of) shape mental health and wellbeing among local residents?" Using a situational analysis research approach, our findings indicate that local residents must navigate several tensions within an overarching reality of finding a space of our own. Such tensions reveal contradictory experiences of tight-knitedness, context-informed notions of cultural continuity, access/acceptability barriers, particularly in relation to rural agricultural living, and competing expectations of "small town" life. Such tensions can begin to be addressed through creative service provision, collaborative decision making, and diversity-informed program planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Susana Caxaj
- 1 University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Navjot K Gill
- 2 Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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29
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Son E, Parish SL, Igdalsky L. Disparities in Health Care Quality among Asian Children with Special Health Care Needs. HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2017; 42:95-102. [PMID: 28340082 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlx004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
There is a dearth of information on the quality of health care for Asian American children and particularly Asian children with special health care needs (CSHCN). The goal of this article was to determine whether there were disparities in quality of health care for Asian CSHCN, whose experiences have not been studied. Data were derived from the 2009-2010 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs (ns = 355 non-Hispanic Asian children and 4,343 non-Hispanic white CSHCN). Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between racial identity (that is, non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic Asian) and quality of health care. Racial disparities in quality of health care were substantial between Asian and white CSHCN in 2009-2010. Asian parents were significantly less likely than white parents to report that their health care provider provided the specific information they needed, helped them feel like a partner in their child's care, and was sensitive to the family's values and customs. The development and testing of specific, targeted policy and practice interventions to reduce disparities in health care quality for these children are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Son
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10314. Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston. Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, Heller School of Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
| | - Susan L Parish
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10314. Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston. Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, Heller School of Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
| | - Leah Igdalsky
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10314. Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston. Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, Heller School of Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
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30
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Na S, Ryder AG, Kirmayer LJ. Toward a Culturally Responsive Model of Mental Health Literacy: Facilitating Help-Seeking Among East Asian Immigrants to North America. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2016; 58:211-225. [PMID: 27596560 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Studies have consistently found that East Asian immigrants in North America are less likely to use mental health services even when they experience levels of distress comparable to Euro-Americans. Although cultural factors that may prevent East Asian immigrants from seeking mental health care have been identified, few studies have explored ways to foster appropriate help-seeking and use of mental health services. Recent work on mental health literacy provides a potential framework for strategies to increase appropriate help-seeking and use of services. This paper reviews the literature on help-seeking for mental health problems among East Asian immigrants living in Western countries to critically assess the relevance of the mental health literacy approach as a framework for interventions to improve appropriate use of services. Modifications needed to develop a culturally responsive framework for mental health literacy are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Na
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Andrew G Ryder
- Centre for Clinical Research in Health and Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Culture & Mental Health Research Unit, Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Laurence J Kirmayer
- Division of Social & Transcultural Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Culture & Mental Health Research Unit, Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Hermannsdóttir BS, Ægisdóttir S. Spirituality, Connectedness, and Beliefs About Psychological Services Among Filipino Immigrants in Iceland. COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGIST 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0011000016639146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The authors examined psychological help-seeking attitudes and intentions of 183 Filipino immigrants in Iceland who had no previous counseling experience. Using path analysis, the authors examined how Filipino immigrants’ connectedness to the Filipino and Icelandic communities mediated the relationship among length of stay in Iceland, Icelandic and English fluency, spirituality, and psychological help-seeking attitudes and intentions. The authors also assessed the relationship between perceived system barriers and psychological help seeking. Filipino immigrants’ sense of connectedness to Icelandic society mediated the relationship among length of stay, Icelandic fluency, spirituality, and expertness beliefs and help-seeking intentions. Connectedness to the Filipino community in Iceland mediated the relationship between English fluency and stigma tolerance. Greater perception of system barriers was related to lower tolerance for the stigma attached to seeking psychological help. Implications and suggestions for further research are discussed.
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Sethi B. Health Experiences of Immigrant Visible Minority Women: A Literature Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 13:523-534. [DOI: 10.1080/23761407.2015.1089205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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van Zoonen K, Kleiboer A, Cuijpers P, Smit J, Penninx B, Verhaak P, Beekman A. Determinants of attitudes towards professional mental health care, informal help and self-reliance in people with subclinical depression. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2016; 62:84-93. [PMID: 26243151 DOI: 10.1177/0020764015597014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although little is known about which people with subclinical depression should receive care to prevent the onset of depression, it is clear that remediating symptoms of depression is important. However, depending on the beliefs people hold about help, some people will seek professional help, while others seek informal help or solve problems on their own. AIMS This study examined associations between attitudes about help and socio-demographic variables, mastery, severity of depressive symptoms, accessibility to care, and health care utilization at baseline and 4-year follow-up. METHODS Data were derived from a large cohort study, the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA). A total of 235 respondents with subclinical depression completed questionnaires at baseline and follow-up. Attitude was assessed using a short version of the 'Trust in mental health care' questionnaire. RESULTS Positive attitude towards professional care was associated with being male, younger age, higher mastery and easy accessibility to care. Positive attitude towards informal help was associated with higher mastery and unemployment. Older age, less accessibility to care and lower mastery were associated with positive attitude towards self-reliance. A change in care utilization was associated with positive attitudes towards professional care at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS People differ in the way they cope with symptoms which may influence their preferred care. Higher levels of mastery were positively associated with professional and informal care, but negatively associated with self-reliance. Both age and mastery showed relatively large effect sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim van Zoonen
- Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annet Kleiboer
- Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Smit
- EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Psychiatry, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Brenda Penninx
- EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Psychiatry, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Verhaak
- NIVEL, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, Utrecht, The Netherlands Department of General Practice, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aartjan Beekman
- EMGO institute for Health Care and Research, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Department of Psychiatry, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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George U, Thomson MS, Chaze F, Guruge S. Immigrant Mental Health, A Public Health Issue: Looking Back and Moving Forward. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:13624-48. [PMID: 26516884 PMCID: PMC4627052 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph121013624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Mental Health Commission of Canada's (MHCC) strategy calls for promoting the health and wellbeing of all Canadians and to improve mental health outcomes. Each year, one in every five Canadians experiences one or more mental health problems, creating a significant cost to the health system. Mental health is pivotal to holistic health and wellbeing. This paper presents the key findings of a comprehensive literature review of Canadian research on the relationship between settlement experiences and the mental health and well-being of immigrants and refugees. A scoping review was conducted following a framework provided by Arskey and O'Malley (Int J Soc Res Methodol 8:19-32, 2005). Over two decades of relevant literature on immigrants' health in Canada was searched. These included English language peer-reviewed publications from relevant online databases Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, Healthstar, ERIC and CINAHL between 1990 and 2015. The findings revealed three important ways in which settlement affects the mental health of immigrants and refugees: through acculturation related stressors, economic uncertainty and ethnic discrimination. The recommendations for public health practice and policy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usha George
- Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, 99 Gerrard Street East, SHE-690; 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada.
| | - Mary S Thomson
- Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, 99 Gerrard Street East, SHE-690; 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada.
| | - Ferzana Chaze
- Community Studies, Sheridan College, 7899 McLaughlin Road, Brampton, ON L6Y 5H9, Canada.
| | - Sepali Guruge
- School of Nursing; Ryerson University, Faculty of Community Services; 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada.
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Johnson-Agbakwu CE, Allen J, Nizigiyimana JF, Ramirez G, Hollifield M. Mental health screening among newly arrived refugees seeking routine obstetric and gynecologic care. Psychol Serv 2015; 11:470-476. [PMID: 25383999 DOI: 10.1037/a0036400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common mental health disorders in the refugee population. High rates of violence, trauma, and PTSD among refugee women remain unaddressed. The process of implementing a mental health screening tool among multiethnic, newly arrived refugee women receiving routine obstetric and gynecologic care in a dedicated refugee women's health clinic is described. The Refugee Health Screener-15 (RHS-15) is a culturally responsive, efficient, validated screening instrument that detects symptoms of emotional distress across diverse refugee populations and languages. An interdisciplinary community partnership was established with a local behavioral health services agency to facilitate the referral of women scoring positive on the RHS-15. Staff and provider training sessions, as well as the incorporation of bicultural, multilingual cultural health navigators, greatly facilitated linguistically appropriate care coordination for refugee women in a culturally sensitive manner. Twenty-six (23.2%) of the 112 women who completed the RHS-15 scored positive, of which 14 (53.8%) were Iraqi, 1 (3.8%) was Burmese, and 3 (11.5%) were Somali. Among these 26 women, 8 (30.8%) are actively receiving mental health services and 5 (19.2%) have appointments scheduled. However, 13 (50%) are not enrolled in mental health care because of either declining services (46.2%) or a lack of insurance (53.8%). Screening for mental disorders among refugee women will promote greater awareness and identify those individuals who would benefit from further mental health evaluation and treatment. Sustainable interdisciplinary models of care are necessary to promote health education, dispel myths, and reduce the stigma of mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crista E Johnson-Agbakwu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Refugee Women's Health Clinic, Maricopa Integrated Health System
| | | | - Jeanne F Nizigiyimana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Refugee Women's Health Clinic, Maricopa Integrated Health System
| | - Glenda Ramirez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Refugee Women's Health Clinic, Maricopa Integrated Health System
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Alkahtani S, Cherrill J, Millward C, Grayson K, Hilliam R, Sammons H, Choonara I. Access to medicines by child refugees in the East Midlands region of England: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e006421. [PMID: 25524546 PMCID: PMC4275676 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore access to primary healthcare and drug therapy by refugee children in the East Midlands region of England. DESIGN Interviews with refugees with children and a control group of British parents with children. SETTING East Midlands region of England. PARTICIPANTS 50 refugees with children and a control group of 50 parents with children. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Number of medicines used by children in the last month and the past 6 months. Health of parents and children. Registration with a general practitioner (GP). RESULTS All families in both groups were registered with a GP. There was no difference in the number of children in the two groups experiencing illnesses .In the last month, 30 refugee children received 60 medicines and 31 control children 63 medicines. In the past 6 months, 48 refugee children received 108 medicines and 43 control children 96 medicines. There was no difference between the two groups of children in relation to the likelihood of receiving any medicines in either the last month (P=0.839) or the past 6 months (p=0.81). Children in the refugee group were more likely to receive prescribed medicines for the last month (p=0.008) and the past 6 months (p<0.001). They were also less likely to receive over the counter (OTC) medicines in the past 6 months (p=0.009). CONCLUSIONS The refugee children in this study in the East Midlands had access to primary healthcare, medicines and a family doctor. They were more likely to receive prescribed medicines and less likely to receive OTC medicines, especially paracetamol.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Alkahtani
- Academic Division of Child Health, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - J Cherrill
- Academic Division of Child Health, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - C Millward
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | | | - R Hilliam
- The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - H Sammons
- Academic Division of Child Health, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - I Choonara
- Academic Division of Child Health, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
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Chen FP, Wu HC, Huang CJ. Influences of attribution and stigma on working relationships with providers practicing Western psychiatry in the Taiwanese context. Psychiatr Q 2014; 85:439-51. [PMID: 24938185 DOI: 10.1007/s11126-014-9304-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study examined influences of causal attributions of schizophrenia and perceived and internalized mental illness stigma on perceived working alliance with, and informational support received from doctors practicing Western psychiatry in the Taiwanese social-cultural context. This cross-sectional quantitative study used a non-probability, purposive sampling technique to recruit 212 Taiwanese diagnosed with schizophrenia from Taiwanese Alliance of the Mentally Ill, 4 community mental health rehabilitation centres and 2 psychiatric hospitals between July 2012 and March 2013. Linear regression models were used for analysis. The results showed that environmental attributions were positively associated with both perceived working alliance and perceived informational support, while supernatural attributions were negatively associated with perceived working alliance and perceived informational support. Perceived stigma had a negative association with perceived working alliance. The discrimination domain of internalized stigma specifically had a positive association with perceived working alliance, while the withdraw domain had a negative association with perceived informational support. Findings inform the importance of culturally sensitive practices in developing an effective working relationship. Western psychiatric care providers need to explore consumers' casual attributions of mental illness and understand the impact of stigma so that providers may successfully engage consumers in care and provide tailored illness education and information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Pei Chen
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA,
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Diefenbacher A. [Psyche and soma: what can the consultation-liaison psychiatrist contribute?]. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT OSTERREICHISCHER NERVENARZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2014; 29:54-62. [PMID: 25416207 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-014-0126-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In German speaking countries, during the last decades, we can see a growing, though albeit small, integration of psychiatry and psychosomatics into (somatic) medicine. This article outlines the importance of the growing number of elderly patients in medical care as a vantage point for c-l-psychiatrists to play a pro-active role in implementing adequate structures and processes for diagnostics and treatment of this patient group. It is argued that delirium (in dementia) can and should be regarded as a paradigm for a biopsychosocial disorder sui generis. In addition, aspects of the cl-psychiatrists role at two important interfaces of somatic and psychological medicine, i.e. primary care and emergency rooms, are highlighted. Finally, some information about the development of the professionalization of cl-psychiatry in Europe is given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Diefenbacher
- Abt. für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Königin Elisabeth Herzberge, Herzbergstraße 79, 10365, Berlin, Deutschland,
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Tse WS, Wong KKF. Comparing of the mediation and the moderation role of coping motive in the relationship between perceived discrimination and hazardous drinking. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2014. [DOI: 10.3109/14659891.2014.943816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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May S, Rapee RM, Coello M, Momartin S, Aroche J. Mental health literacy among refugee communities: differences between the Australian lay public and the Iraqi and Sudanese refugee communities. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2014; 49:757-69. [PMID: 24248469 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-013-0793-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated differences in mental health knowledge and beliefs between participants from the Iraqi and Sudanese refugee communities, and Australian-born individuals, in Sydney, Australia. METHODS Ninety-seven participants were given vignettes of characters describing symptoms of major depressive disorder and posttraumatic stress. They were required to identify psychological symptoms as disorders, rate beliefs about the causes of and helpful treatments for these disorders, and rate attitude statements regarding the two characters. RESULTS Australian participants recognized the presented symptoms as specific mental disorders significantly more than Iraqi and Sudanese participants did, and reported causal and treatment beliefs which were more congruent with expert beliefs as per the western medical model of mental disorder. The Sudanese group endorsed supernatural and religious causal beliefs regarding depression and posttraumatic stress symptoms most often; but both Sudanese and Iraqi participants strongly supported options from the supernatural and religious treatment items. However, evidence for pluralistic belief systems was also found. CONCLUSIONS Although sampling was non-random, suggesting caution in the interpretation of results, it appears that the mental health literacy of lay Australians may be more aligned with the western medical model of mental disorder than that of Iraqi and Sudanese refugee communities. Mental health literacy support needs of Iraqi and Sudanese refugee communities resettled in western countries such as Australia might include education about specific symptoms and causes of mental disorder and the effectiveness of psychiatric treatments. These findings provide useful directions for the promotion of optimal service utilization among such communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha May
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia,
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Pui-Hing Wong J, Tai-Wai Li A, Kwong-Lai Poon M, Po-Lun Fung K. An exploratory study on the mental health of immigrants, refugees and non-status people living with HIV in Toronto. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MIGRATION, HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE 2013. [DOI: 10.1108/ijmhsc-07-2013-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
– Canadian HIV/AIDS researchers, service providers and policy-makers are faced with new challenges of providing effective and inclusive care that meets the needs of the changing populations infected with and affected by HIV. Since 2005 immigrants and refugees from ethno-racial minority communities have comprised close to 20 percent of all new HIV infections in Canada. Anecdotes shared by PLWHAs and service providers indicated that mental health challenges faced by newcomer PLWHAs was a priority concern for HIV prevention, treatment and care. This paper reports on the results of an exploratory study, which examined the complex factors that influence the mental health of immigrants and refugees living with HIV/AIDS (IR-PLWHAs).
Design/methodology/approach
– This exploratory study is informed by a critical social science paradigm, which acknowledges that the everyday reality is shaped by interlocking systems of social processes and unequal power relations. The paper used a qualitative interpretative design and focus groups to explore the intersecting effects of living with HIV/AIDS, migration and settlement, and HIV stigma and discrimination on the mental health of IR-PLWHAs.
Findings
– The paper found that in addition to social and economic marginalization, IR-PLWHAs experienced multiple stressors associated with their HIV status: neurocognitive and physical impairments, HIV stigma and discrimination, and fear of deportation. The paper also found that the experiences of stigma and discrimination among IR-PLWHAs were complex and contextual, closely linked to their social positions defined by the intersecting dimensions of race, class, gender, citizenship, sexualities, body norms, and HIV status. The paper concludes that effective HIV prevention, treatment and care, and mental health promotion in newcomer and ethno-racial minority communities must consider the bio-psycho-social connections of different stressors and the interlocking systems of oppression faced by IR-PLWHAs.
Research limitations/implications
– This study was exploratory in nature with a small number of participants who were recruited through AIDS organizations in Toronto. Consequently, the recruitment strategy may reach only those who were connected to the AIDS organizations. The paper believes that IR-PLWHAs who were not connected to the AIDS organizations might experience even more social exclusion and marginalization. These factors may limit the transferability of this study.
Originality/value
– This is the first study that explores the bio-psycho-social connections and intersecting determinants of mental health among immigrants and refugees living with HIV and AIDS in Canada. The results of this study contribute to cross-sector dialogue among practitioners and researchers in the HIV/AIDS, mental health, and immigration and settlement services sectors.
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Tang TTT, Reilly J, Dickson JM. Attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help among Chinese students at a UK university. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/14733145.2012.659747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Huang B, Appel HB, Nicdao EG, Lee HJD, Ai AL. Chronic conditions, behavioral health, and use of health services among Asian American men: the first nationally representative sample. Am J Mens Health 2012; 7:66-76. [PMID: 22992317 DOI: 10.1177/1557988312460885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the Asian American population is increasing, Asian American men's health remains underinvestigated. This study examined the overall pattern of their health and health care usage. Using a nationally representative sample (N = 998) from the National Latino and Asian American Study (2002-2003), the first comprehensive epidemiological survey, rates of chronic conditions, behavioral health, and mental health service utilization (e.g., general medical, specialty mental health, and any medical services) were computed. The ages ranged from 18 to 95 and the mean age was 41. Of the sample, there were no ethnic subgroup differences in most of the physical and chronic conditions, with the exception of allergies/hay fever, arthritis, asthma, and high blood pressure. Behavioral health problems and substance use varied among Asian American men with more Vietnamese American men reporting that they are current smokers and more Filipino American men reporting having ever used drugs and having higher rates of obesity. Levels of mental health status and health services-seeking behaviors also varied among Asian subgroups. Variations exist among the three subgroups of Asian American men with regard to chronic, behavioral, and mental health issues. The results provide greater understanding of the heterogeneity and relationships among the Asian American subgroups with respect to physical, behavioral, and mental health concerns. Similarities and differences in prevalence rates and use of health services must include examining the social context. Social factors such as immigration status, living environments, lifestyle, culture, and health insurance may help explain the variations among Asian American men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bu Huang
- Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA 98118, USA.
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Assessing the Psychometric Properties of the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale-Short Form in Mainland China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COUNSELLING 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10447-011-9137-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Health perception and health behaviors of elder Tibetans living in India and Switzerland. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2011; 26:331-48. [PMID: 21894492 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-011-9151-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Tibetan elders have lived in exile since the failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. Using mixed methods approach, this study explored the perceived health and health behaviors of 30 older Tibetans living in India and Switzerland using Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Model. Results indicate that elder Tibetans living in Switzerland enjoyed better health and well-being than those living in India. Because of the availability of old age benefits, pensions, and health insurance, participants in Switzerland had greater financial independence, and fewer problems with healthcare access and affordability than those in India. In addition to financial reimbursement, the contribution and importance of personal, familial, community, and religious factors to participant's health behaviors are examined. The study is a case example depicting the impact of different factors from micro to macro on the health and well-being of a refugee group. Its implications such as the implementation of old age benefits for older persons living in developing countries are discussed.
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Liu CH, Ingleby D, Meeuwesen L. Barriers to health care for chinese in the Netherlands. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FAMILY MEDICINE 2011; 2011:635853. [PMID: 22295191 PMCID: PMC3263844 DOI: 10.1155/2011/635853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This study examines utilisation of the Dutch health care system by Chinese people in the Netherlands as well as their attitudes to the system, paying special attention to mental health. Information was gathered by semistructured interviews (n = 102). The main issues investigated are access, help-seeking behaviour, and quality of care. Results showed that most respondents used Dutch health care as their primary method of managing health problems. Inadequate knowledge about the system and lack of Dutch language proficiency impede access to care, in particular registration with a General Practitioner (GP). Users complained that the care given differed from what they expected. Results also showed that the major problems are to be found in the group coming from the Chinese-speaking region. Western concepts of mental health appear to be widely accepted by Chinese in the Netherlands. However, almost half of our respondents believed that traditional Chinese medicine or other methods can also help with mental health problems. The provision of relevant information in Chinese appears to be important for improving access. Better interpretation and translation services, especially for first-generation migrants from the Chinese-speaking region, are also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cha-Hsuan Liu
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - David Ingleby
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ludwien Meeuwesen
- Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Kanukollu SN, Mahalingam R. The idealized cultural identities model on help-seeking and child sexual abuse: a conceptual model for contextualizing perceptions and experiences of South Asian Americans. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2011; 20:218-243. [PMID: 21442534 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2011.556571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we propose an interdisciplinary framework to study perceptions of child sexual abuse and help-seeking among South Asians living in the United States. We integrate research on social marginality, intersectionality, and cultural psychology to understand how marginalized social experience accentuates South Asian immigrants' desire to construct a positive self-identity. Using model minority ideology as an example of such a construction, we highlight its role in silencing the topic of child sexual abuse within this immigrant community as well as its impact on attitudes towards professional mental health services. We contend that our framework, the idealized cultural identities model on help-seeking and child sexual abuse, provides a unique analytical model for clinicians and researchers to understand how South Asian Americans process, experience, and react to child sexual abuse.
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Mathews M. Assessment and comparison of culturally based explanations for mental disorder among Singaporean Chinese youth. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2011; 57:3-17. [PMID: 21252351 DOI: 10.1177/0020764008096853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Culture is important to how populations understand the cause of mental disorder, a variable that has implications for treatment-seeking behaviour. Asian populations underutilize professional mental health treatment partly because of their endorsement of supernatural causation models to explain mental disorders, beliefs that stem from their religious backgrounds. AIMS This study sought to understand the dimensions of explanatory models used by three groups of Singaporean Chinese youth (n = 842)--Christian, Chinese religionist, no religion--and examined their responses to an instrument that combined explanations from psychological and organic perspectives on mental disorder with approaches from Asian and Western religious traditions. RESULTS Factor analysis revealed five factors. Two were psychological corresponding to the humanistic and cognitive-behavioural perspectives respectively. Another two, which were supernatural in nature, dealt with karmaic beliefs popular among Asian religionists and more classical religious explanations common in monotheistic religions. The remaining factor was deemed a physiological model although it incorporated an item that made it consistent with an Asian organic model. CONCLUSION While groups differed in their endorsement of supernatural explanations, psychological perspectives had the strongest endorsement among this population. Regression analysis showed that individuals who endorsed supernatural explanations more strongly tended to have no exposure to psychology courses and heightened religiosity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Mathews
- Department of Sociology, 11 Arts Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117695.
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Castleden H, Crooks VA, Hanlon N, Schuurman N. Providers' perceptions of Aboriginal palliative care in British Columbia's rural interior. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2010; 18:483-491. [PMID: 20500225 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2010.00922.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Aboriginal Canadians experience a disproportionate burden of ill-health and have endured a history of racism in accessing and using health care. Meanwhile, this population is rapidly growing, resulting in an urgent need to facilitate better quality of living and dying in many ways, including through enhancing (cultural) access to palliative care. In this article, we report the findings from a qualitative case study undertaken in rural British Columbia, Canada through exploring the perceptions of Aboriginal palliative care in a region identified as lacking in formal palliative care services and having only a limited Aboriginal population. Using interview data collected from 31 formal and informal palliative care providers (May-September 2008), we thematically explore not only the existing challenges and contradictions associated with the prioritisation and provision of Aboriginal palliative care in the region in terms of (in)visibility but also identify the elements necessary to enhance such care in the future. The implications for service providers in rural regions are such that consideration of the presence of small, and not always 'visible', populations is necessary; while rural care providers are known for their resilience and resourcefulness, increased opportunities for meaningful two-way knowledge exchange with peers and consultation with experts cannot be overlooked. Doing so will serve to enhance culturally accessible palliative care in the region in general and for Aboriginal peoples specifically. This analysis thus contributes to a substantial gap in the palliative care literature concerning service providers' perceptions surrounding Aboriginal palliative care as well as Aboriginal peoples' experiences with receiving such care. Given the growing Aboriginal population and continued health inequities, this study serves to not only increase awareness but also create better living and dying conditions in small but incremental ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Castleden
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Kenneth C Rowe Management Building, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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Chung I. Changes in the sociocultural reality of chinese immigrants: challenges and opportunities in help-seeking behaviour. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2010; 56:436-47. [PMID: 19651695 DOI: 10.1177/0020764009105647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This paper uses findings from a larger study to present a nuanced depiction of the interplay of informal and formal help-seeking processes of a sample of Chinese immigrants in their mental healthcare in New York City. METHOD Thirty one participants who were receiving mental health treatment were interviewed with regard to their experiences preceding their suicide attempt. Their narratives were coded for thematic analysis. FINDINGS Acculturation difficulties, inaccessibility to services and stigma associated with mental illness were major obstacles in the participants' help-seeking process, which was consistent with other studies of immigrants of ethnic minority groups in the USA. In addition, the findings showed how changes in this sample of Chinese immigrants' socio-cultural reality disrupted familiar help-seeking pathways, and perpetuated and amplified the aforementioned stressors. Issues of human connection, immigrants' resiliency and missed opportunities were also identified as potential resources to modify cultural stigmas and help-seeking behaviour. CONCLUSION There are varied socio-cultural factors that need to be considered in mental health outreach services in immigrant communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Chung
- Hunter College School of Social Work, City University of New York, 129 E. 79th Street, New York, NY 10075, USA.
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