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Identifying facilitators and barriers to professional mental help-seeking behaviors among first generation Iranian
Mona Mohammadifirouzeh1, Kyeung Mi Oh2, Iccha Basnyat3
1Towson University, College of Health Professions, Department of Nursing, 8000 York Rd, Towson, MD 21252, USA.
Background And Objectives:
Mental health stigma, cultural factors, high mental health service costs, and knowledge about mental health are known to impact mental help seeking behaviors among immigrants living in the United States (U.S.). This qualitative study aimed to explore the facilitators and barriers to professional mental help-seeking (PMHS) behaviors among first-generation Iranian Americans (FGIAs) living in the U.S.
Method:
Twenty semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis via MAXQDA 2022.
Results:
The researchers identified three key themes including: 1) navigating barriers in mental health services, 2) knowledge and attitudes shaping seeking professional help, and 3) cultural factors and norms. In addition, several subthemes including facilitators and barriers to professional mental help-seeking behaviors among Iranian Americans were identified.
Conclusions:
Increased awareness about mental health could improve the utilization of mental health services in this community. Furthermore, enhancing the cultural acceptability, accessibility, and approachability of mental health services are essential for efficiently addressing specific needs of this population.
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