Mental health... What do you get from it? People around the world view mental health differently. Some understand it as the overall well-being of a human that is treatable, and some as a disease that has to be hushed or taboo, never to speak about!
In the Netflix series Ratched (2020), we are shown that racial, gender, and sexual minorities often suffer from mental health issues the highest due to the inadequacy of proper mental health care services or the social stigma that is prevalent.
Especially in the situation of refugees in the current global parameters, at least 65 million people are displaced by conflicts, armed conflicts, or persecution, with the majority living in low- and lower-middle-income countries.
We should be thankful for the digital world that has brought this to our notice, or else we would have remained in the dark. But again, half knowledge is always dangerous, so instead, let us learn about it by reading further.
Disparities present in mental health are completely different compared to just health in general. By mental health, we refer to the state of well-being of a person, be it emotionally, psychologically, or socially. You might wonder why it is so important, though.
Let me make it simple - Imagine carrying a heavy backpack every single day filled with stress, anxiety, and unresolved emotions. Now, what happens when the weight becomes too much to bear? That’s precisely why mental health is so important.
Your mind is just as important as your body. It helps you think, feel, and react. Good mental health keeps you focused, strengthens relationships, and enables you to bounce back from hurdles.
But when you decide to keep filling up your bag with more underlying emotions, it will eventually lead to burnout - in simple terms, you will be having a ‘mental breakdown’.
Have you ever noticed how, in certain communities, talking about mental health feels like breaking an unspoken rule? It's like you have just cursed out in a room full of elders.
It’s not that personal struggles don’t exist; it is more about how seeking help is often met with silence, shame, or even denial. For minority populations, these barriers go beyond; they’re rooted in culture or society.
Cultural Stigma
The most common reason people avoid getting care is the fear of judgment. In many cultures, mental illness is seen as a weakness, a personal failure, or even a supernatural problem!
It is far from being seen as a medical condition. What is the reason for this? It is often associated with only ‘crazy’ people or a waste of time.
Did you know in India, nearly 15% of the population suffers from some form of mental disorder? The topic of mental health is rarely discussed openly, and therapy is a long shot.
Economic Disadvantage
Let's face it: the cost of mental health care is expensive in general, and all the more for minority populations living in a different country. Therapies are not covered under health programs, making them more inaccessible.
It’s a harsh reality that in India, Dalits experience a higher rate of discrimination largely due to economic disadvantages. Studies have shown at least 40% of Dalits experience more depressive episodes compared to other groups. And the women from the community suffer from triple marginalisation, making it worse.
Lack/Absence of Culturally Competent Care
India is a vast country with myriads of different cultures and struggles. Someone from the southern tip of the country would find it impossible to grapple with the problems northeast Indians face. Similarly, a therapist from West Bengal wouldn’t ever fathom the struggles of the reclusive villages in Rajasthan.
Let’s say someone from a minority group finally decides to take a visit to see a therapist only to find out that the professional doesn’t understand their culture, struggles, and way of coping with it.
Fun fact - Did you know the methods followed are the ‘Western approach’? Hence, believing that it can be applied to all doesn’t really make sense! And if the person doesn’t feel understood, they may stop seeking help altogether.
Mistrust in Healthcare
History has shown that minorities face the most discrimination, even in the health sector. At least 20-30% of women or minority groups are often neglected, misdiagnosed, or become a victim of unethical practices, which leads to a deep mistrust of the system. This, in return, creates a barrier as fear has been instilled in them based on their race.
But this doesn't mean we should just sit back and think from the comforts of our house as a whole about anything possible.
So, the main question is, how do we fix this?
Primary
Talk About It - Begin by normalising the conversation about mental health. It's okay to feel this way and talk about it. Humans are never really free from burdens, but that doesn’t mean we should keep it to ourselves. Sharing is a way of understanding and letting go of the situation. You are never alone.
Raise Awareness - Raising awareness is another key factor that should be considered. Talk to your friends and family and let them know what mental health is all about. Without giving it a try, we cannot just assume, “Oh, they won’t understand, they’re from a different generation”.
Exercise - Exercise is one of the best ways to keep yourself physically and mentally fit; a fresh walk in the morning or deep breathing exercises do wonders.
Healthy diet and Hydration - You are what you eat. Chomping just on junk will make you feel sick and lethargic. Eating nutritious meals, on the other hand, will make your body happy. And hydration? It's the key to a successful glow.
Sleep - An ample amount of rest can relax your brain and help you function better.
Secondary
Ideas and decision-making inputs can be taken from minority groups during any social event.
Making educational materials and communication activities more inclusive, this way we will promote a better understanding of respect towards diverse cultures and linguistics.
Support health organisations or NGOs that work or care for the minority groups’ well-being.
With all of that being said, mental health literacy is comparatively low and even if they do wish to treat it, they don’t know whom to seek help from. It is high time we understand that mental health isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity and should be treated that way.
Why do minorities face more mental health problems?
They often face discrimination, cultural stigma, and economic disadvantages, which include the health sector, leading to more stress and depression.
How does discrimination contribute to mental health issues?
Experiencing repetitive racism, casteism, or other forms of discrimination can cause stress, PTSD, and low self-esteem.
How does lack of representation affect minority groups?
Minorities often struggle to find a therapist who understands their cultural background, experiences, and challenges, and this lack of representation can lead to misdiagnosis or reluctance to seek help.
How does a language barrier cause a drift in mental health checkups?
For immigrants, the language barrier is the biggest issue that can make communication difficult concerning mental health. If the therapist is not bilingual, he/she might be unable to explain the treatments better. This way, the patient might not return for another check-up.
How can we improve the situation?
It is always good to have diverse therapists, but raising awareness and helping fund NGOs for affordable mental healthcare services are other options.
