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Factors that influence Asian communities’ access to mental health care
Author(s) -
Wynaden Dianne,
Chapman Rose,
Orb Angelica,
McGowan Sunita,
Zeeman Zenith,
Yeak SiewHo
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
international journal of mental health nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.911
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1447-0349
pISSN - 1445-8330
DOI - 10.1111/j.1440-0979.2005.00364.x
Subject(s) - mental health , shame , stigma (botany) , mental illness , qualitative research , mainstream , health care , thematic analysis , psychology , social stigma , medicine , nursing , psychiatry , family medicine , social psychology , sociology , social science , philosophy , theology , human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) , economics , economic growth
This paper presents the findings of a qualitative study to identify factors that influence Asian communities’ access to mental health care and how mental health care is delivered to them. Semistructured interviews were completed with Asian community members/leaders and health‐care professionals. Content analysis identified major themes. Participants also completed a demographic data sheet. The research aimed to provide health professionals with an increased understanding of the values and beliefs held by people from Asian communities regarding the cause and treatment of mental illness. Data analysis identified six main themes that influenced Asian communities’ access to mental health care and how mental health care is delivered to them. They were: shame and stigma; causes of mental illness; family reputation; hiding up; seeking help; and lack of collaboration. The findings highlighted that people from Asian communities are unwilling to access help from mainstream services because of their beliefs, and that stigma and shame are key factors that influence this reluctance. The findings also highlight that the mental health needs of refugee women are significant, and that they comprise a vulnerable group within Australian society.