Non‐European immigrants' self‐described strategies for mental health promotion and perceptions of Finnish mental health services: A qualitative descriptive analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to describe non-European immigrants' perceptions toward mental health care in Finland and the factors that support their mental health.Design and Methods: Participants (N = 17) were interviewed through semistructured interviews, after which interview transcripts were analyzed using a six-phase thematic analysis process.Findings: The participants reported that developing self-help strategies benefitted their mental health. The participants primarily preferred unprofessional help over professional mental health care. Several structural and cultural barriers to helpseeking were identified.Practical Implication: Health care staff working with immigrants need proper education and knowledge to provide sufficient, holistic care; for this reason, information about the cultural differences among immigrants and cultural sensitivity should be included in basic as well as post-graduate nursing education.