A prospective study of social difficulties, acculturation and persistent depression in Pakistani women living in the UK

Abstract

Lack of acculturation, especially less familiarity with the English language, is an independent predictor of persistence of depression in Pakistani women in UK. This needs to be taken into consideration when planning treatment, which also needs to address the personal difficulties associated with persistent depression. The implication of this work is that women of Pakistani origin with depression should be encouraged to receive help in the use of English as one part of treatment that may prevent relapse.

Cultural Practices of Pakistani Immigrant Women During Pregnancy and Childbirth

“…The median age was 29 years. Seventy percent held associate or higher degrees and 60% were engaged in the labor force with a median income of $60,000 and a poverty rate of 17% (Census, 2014). The largest concentrations settled in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, California and Texas (Census, 2014).…”

“…A highly esteemed family member usually an older male, other than the father, recites the azan, the Muslim call to prayer, into the ear of the baby soon after birth. The azan represents the first words heard by the newborn (Chaudhry, Husain, Tomenson, & Creed, 2012). Another common practice is feeding the baby ghutti (first taste of food) soon after birth.…”

“…An elderly pious person gives the baby ghutti, often sucked from his/her finger. It is believed that giving the ghutti allows transfer of the person's positive qualities to the baby (Chaudhry, et al, 2012). Ghutti may consist of honey or a small, softened piece of date rubbed in the baby's palate (Imam, 2012).…”

“…Ghutti may consist of honey or a small, softened piece of date rubbed in the baby's palate (Imam, 2012). Ghutti is believed to have a laxative effect, reduce colic and strengthen the baby (Chaudhry, et al, 2012). In other Islamic groups this practice is known as Tahneek or Tasmia (Imam, 2012).…”

Obstetric Outcomes of First- and Second-Generation Pakistani Immigrants: A Comparison Study at a Low-Risk Maternity Ward in Norway

“…An independent predictor of the persistence of depression in Pakistani women has been reported to be the lack of acculturation, particularly less familiarity with the English language [7]. A British study explored the experience of maternity service among first-and second-generation Pakistani women, and although the study observed no clear intergenerational differences, it found that women with a limited or insufficient network or language barriers have additional needs [8].…”