Second-Generation Tamil Youth & Their Experiences Accessing Community-Based Mental Healthcare Services

Abstract

Background: Second-generation Tamil youth experience intergenerational trauma from their first generation parents, along with various other mental health stressors which can continue well into adulthood. Early intervention and access to community-based mental healthcare services can serve as a protective factor and prevent chronic mental health issues. However, cultural and access barriers prevent second-generation Tamil youth from accessing much needed mental healthcare support. The purpose of this study is to explore how second-generation Tamil youth describe their experiences accessing community-based mental healthcare services and to identify barriers and facilitators to accessing mental healthcare services. Methods: This study used Qualitative descriptive design and was informed by the Penchansky and Thomas Access framework with Saurman’s addition. Nine second-generation Tamil youth in the Greater Toronto Area were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide to collect information about their experiences accessing community-based mental healthcare services. Concurrent data analysis was conducted to promote rich data collection which helped identify themes among participant responses. Each theme helped identify barriers and facilitators to accessing community-based mental healthcare services. The thematic analysis clarified details and descriptions of the experiences of second-generation Tamil youth. Results: Data analysis revealed six themes that fit within the dimensions of access: awareness, availability, acceptability, affordability, accessibility and accommodation. Findings from this study helps identify barriers and facilitators to accessing community-based mental healthcare services as experienced by participants. Conclusion: While second-generation Tamil youth were able to describe their experiences accessing community-based mental healthcare services, not all participants were successful in accessing a service. Further research is necessary to explore key strategies to ensure accessible mental healthcare support for second-generation Tamil youth, to better meet their unique needs, and to remove barriers preventing early access to services. Findings from this study are important to help inform the practice of nurses and practitioners, policy, and public education to better support the unique needs of the second-generation Tamil population and other newcomer groups and promote mental health.