The Relationship Between Cultural Identity, Help-Seeking Attitudes, and Mental Health

Cultural identity and the societal context of mental health issues play an important part in the decision to seek help Chan et al (Stigma Health 3:283-93, 2018). Both acculturation or the cultural socialization to mainstream culture by ethnic and racial minorities Sun et al (J Couns Psychol 63:617-32, 2016), and enculturation, or the retention of one's culture of origin, influence a person's perceptions of mental health care and willingness to seek help when needed. Indeed, a range of studies have shown varying levels of help-seeking behaviors between cultural groups linked to identification with dominant or nondominant cultures Seamark D, and Gabriel L (Br J Guid Couns 46:120-31, 2018). Considering past research in this area, the goal of this study is to expand the understanding of the impact of acculturation and enculturation on help-seeking behaviors in various ethnic and racial groups in the USA. In contrast to many findings showing stigma against mental health care and barriers to care among immigrants and people of color in America, our findings showed no significant differences between racial/ethnic identity nor generational status (i.e., first, second, third generation born in the USA) in help-seeking attitudes and behaviors. Other exploratory findings and their implications for counselors are discussed.