[Cultural diversity in mental health care]

Background  Of the total Dutch population, 25.7% has a migration background. The countries of origin, migration motives and time in the Netherlands are very diverse. Aim  To provide an overview of the cultural diversity within the psychiatry of different groups of people with a migration background, and to address the challenges and mental health care to these groups and the position of transcultural psychiatry in the Netherlands. Method  Based on integration of a narrative literature review (without a systematic search), own experiences and a fictitious case, we discuss the most important groups. This concerns the so-called guest workers as a specific group of first-generation migrants, second-generation migrants with their specific problems, and finally refugees and undocumented migrants with an accumulation of risk-increasing factors. Results  In addition to predisposition and migration factors, insufficient understanding of cultural context contributes to the psychiatric problems of first- and second-generation migrants. Refugees and undocumented migrants also have limited access to care. There is a reimbursement system in the Netherlands for undocumented migrants, through which they can also rely on care. By understanding cultural backgrounds, professionals can further improve their skills and communication in the field of intercultural psychiatry. Conclusion  Cultural diversity of patient groups demands additional attention to diagnosis and therapy.