Exploring the Mental Health and Cultural Identity of South Asian Immigrants in Ontario

Abstract

Many South Asians in Canada experience mental health challenges and report a lack of culturally sensitive support. Immigration is seen to be a key determinant in the mental health of individuals, and the acculturation process can significantly influence one’s cultural identity. This study seeks to examine the mental health and cultural identity of South Asian immigrants in Ontario through their immigration experience. Eight South Asian individuals who immigrated to Ontario within the past 15 years participated in a one-hour virtual semi-structured interview. They were asked about their immigration experiences and how these experiences affected their mental health, interpersonal relationships, and sense of cultural identity. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis and the aid of NVivo 15 to extract prevalent themes. The results suggested that many South Asian immigrants experience mental health challenges including anxiety and depressive symptoms, yet are met with a lack of accessible and culturally sensitive resources. Many participants described changes in their cultural identity. While some experienced initial discrimination or challenges adjusting to a new culture, most reported that they now see their identity as a balance between South Asian and Canadian. Among the three men and five women interviewed, no significant gender differences were observed, however the age at which one immigrated may appear to play a role in how willing they are to accept Western culture, as well as their desire to stay in Canada or move back home. This study highlights the importance of implementing culturally sensitive mental health care that is more readily available to South Asian immigrants, as well as additional resources that can help facilitate the immigration and acculturation experience.