Why is it that some people don’t receive help that can benefit their mental health?

The National Institute for Mental Health (via Psychology Today) has found that Asian Americans in particular experience barriers preventing them from accessing mental health care. “According to a 2011 study from the National Institute for Mental Health, Asian Americans are less likely to reach out for help with emotional difficulties than white, Latino, and Black ethnic groups. In fact, only 17% of all Asian Americans have sought professional help, and only 6% sought this help from a mental health provider.” (Psychology Today, 2016)

To read more about how stigma affects Asian American males, refer to Erin Chew’s review of a recent Psychology Today publication: http://www.yomyomf.com/the-dark-struggle-of-mental-illness-among-asian-american-men/.

The original Psychology Today article refers to the work of a therapist who specializes in 2nd and 3rd generation Asian Americans in the Bay Area of California. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-pacific-heart/201612/when-asian-american-men-seek-therapy-the-invisible-struggle

Seeking the assistance of a mental health professional early on is an important part of success in treatment. Therefore, encourage yourself or your loved ones to consider speaking with a professional to see what options are available.