Understanding the mental health perspectives and experiences of migrants to Canada
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.
Notes
Gaps identified
- Various characteristics of participants were not assessed, such as immigration status and what their specific mental health concern was.
- Additionally, certain groups were not included in this research, such as those with limited oral English ability.
Key recommendations
- Multilingual service providers from the same culture as clients can improve mental healthcare, both in service delivery and in combatting cultural stigma.
- Increase government funding to support immigrant young adults with mental health concerns.
Key findings
- Participants had cultural beliefs of mental health concerns, including describing them as “psycho”, “crazy”, or “cursed”, as well as the need to hide mental illness from the community.
- Individuals were conflicted in deciding when to seek professional help, if at all.
- Participants discussed generally positive ideas and experiences of the mental healthcare system in Canada, particularly when compared to their home countries.
- Language barriers were identified as an important deterrent to using services.
Integration timeline
- 1 month to 9 years
Community organizations
Key population
Location
Open access – No
