Indian immigrants' constructions of mental health and mental illness in the perinatal period: A qualitative study

Abstract

AimThe aim of this study is to explore how immigrant women and men from India construct mental health and mental illness in the perinatal period.DesignQualitative interpretive design.MethodsData were collected by conducting in‐depth interviews with 19 participants. Photo elicitation, free listing and pile sorting were used during the interviews. Purposive sampling was used, and data were collected in 2018 and 2019. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Finding/ResultsOne major theme and three subthemes were identified. ‘We do not talk about it’ was the major theme and the subthemes: (1) ‘living peacefully and feeling happy’ described the views on mental health; (2) ‘that's the elephant in the room still’ captures how participants felt when talking about mental illness; and (3) ‘why don't we talk about it’ offers reasons why the Indian community does not talk about mental health and illness.ConclusionThe findings of this study have highlighted the importance of understanding the impact of immigration and being culturally sensitive when assessing mental health in the perinatal period.ImpactThe findings of this study identify some of the reasons for non‐disclosure of mental health issues by immigrants. Incorporating these findings during psychosocial assessment by health professionals in the perinatal period will help translate the cultural aspects into more effective communication.Patient or Public ContributionPatient and public contribution to the study was provided by the Community Stakeholders Group; these were members of the immigrant community from India who had expertise in mental health. They contributed to the study design and the key terms and phrases for the free list used in interviews.

Perceived stigma and help seeking behavior among Indian Men

“…It might also indicate that individuals are worried about being judged if their family or friends know about them seeking professional help. Many people don't talk openly about mental health issues in Indian community, which makes it hard for them to get help when they need it from a professional worker (Bridgit Philip et al, (2024). Therefore, the study might help in addressing the lack of awareness and societal judgment towards professional help seeking, while also stretching its need for further research to dwell upon the factors influencing.…”

Factors Affecting Diasporic Women’s Quality of Life: A Systematic Review

“… 49 The psychosocial assessment found that effective communication, taking cultural aspects into account, public contributions and community understanding can benefit mental health, and understanding the positive impact of immigration and reaching out and communicating culturally were associated with mental health outcomes of health and well-being. 50 And migrants are especially vulnerable to depression and anxiety when they are pregnant. This is why education is important and why psychosocial support should be provided to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.…”