Exploring experiences of mental health in second generation South Asian Canadians

Abstract

Although many studies have focused on the conceptualization of mental health, the literature only sparsely describes this phenomenon within the South Asian Canadian immigrant population. Furthermore, despite experiencing differential acculturation, there is a paucity in the literature concerning second generation South Asian Canadians. Thus, this research explored their experiences of mental health using Interpretive Description to conduct seven individual in-depth interviews. Seven themes were identified during data analysis: mental health stigma; mental health literacy; the in-between space; primary care; stress; the positive mind; and community participatory approaches. This research highlights the complexity of the conceptualization of mental health, the prevalence of the stigma of mental health, as well as the need for increased mental health literacy in the South Asian community. Findings of this research have implications for the development of targeted anti-stigma campaigns and for advocating for increased cultural safety and humility in the Canadian healthcare system.