Breaking the Silence: Unpacking Mental Health Stigma in Immigrant Families

“Eye-opening”—those were the words my mom uttered after reading my first blog addressing mental health stigma in immigrant communities. Until then, I had never publicly shared my genuine thoughts or personal struggles with mental health. I had certainly never used my own life as a lens to spotlight this issue.

In many immigrant communities, the stigma surrounding mental health runs deep, often going unquestioned and unchallenged. But taking a leap of faith—reflecting on my journey and voicing why I believe mental health matters—sparked a powerful shift in perspective.

The Power of Vulnerability

To my surprise, many of my family members and friends resonated with what I shared. Elders even confessed, “This is true, we just never realized it.” This isn’t surprising, considering mental health conditions in South Asian and many immigrant communities are widely underdiagnosed. Cultural expectations and limited awareness about available resources prevent many from seeking the help they need.

The feedback I received reaffirmed a profound truth: advocacy—especially when rooted in personal narrative—has the power to break barriers and spark meaningful, healing conversations.

Understanding Cultural Barriers and Their Impact

Cultural barriers are one of the main reasons people shy away from therapy. These roadblocks can deeply affect how people perceive mental health, engage with healthcare providers, and seek treatment. They manifest at multiple levels—community, family, tradition, language, and even in our core understanding of what mental health truly means. Overcoming them is crucial to creating an equitable path to mental wellness for all.

1. “It’s Not for Us”: When Immigrant Mental Health is Seen as a Western Luxury

Growing up in many immigrant households, therapy was either never mentioned or considered a “Western thing.” Mental health was something for “them,” not “us.” In South Asian media, when mental health is depicted at all, it often centers on extreme cases, reinforcing the misconception that only severe issues warrant attention. On the flip side, Western media normalizes therapy, portraying it as a healthy, proactive choice. This stark contrast leaves many of us feeling like our everyday struggles don’t “qualify.”

According to one study, 43% of South Asians with mental health concerns avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment and cultural expectations. As someone raised in a culture where therapy was a taboo topic, I now see mental health care as a right, not a privilege. Normalize conversations about emotions at home. Even casual check-ins can pave the way for deeper support.

2. The Sting of Stigma: Why Shame Still Silences So Many

Social judgment is a brutal silencer. The fear of being seen as “weak” or “unstable” keeps many from seeking help.

In high school back in Kerala, India, mental health terms were thrown around as insults—because curse words were punishable, but ignorance wasn’t. Words like “mental,” “autistic,” and “retarded” were used casually, with little understanding of their weight. Teachers often turned a blind eye, reinforcing the idea that these conditions were shameful.

When society uses mental health struggles as punchlines, it teaches us to hide our pain rather than heal from it. Challenge the use of stigmatizing language in your circles. Educating others can spark powerful change.

3. Family First… But at What Cost?

Families are our first teachers—but sometimes, those lessons come with limitations.

“You’re lucky your parents are understanding—mine are not.”

I’ve heard this far too often. It implies that emotional safety at home is rare, not nurtured. But empathy can be taught and boundaries can be built.

In immigrant households, kids are often expected to adjust, not question. This one-way dynamic discourages open conversations, especially about therapy. Initiate a calm, honest dialogue with family members about emotional needs. Vulnerability might feel risky, but it opens doors to deeper connection.

4. The Roles We Play: When Family Expectations Feel Like a Trap

In big families, roles can become shackles. The “caretaker,” the “golden child,” the “scapegoat”—these labels may be unspoken, but they carry heavy emotional tolls.

These roles are rooted in tradition and hierarchy. In collectivist cultures, the eldest often bears the weight of the family’s emotional and financial well-being. The “perfect” child is pressured to maintain a flawless image, leaving no room for vulnerability.

And when someone dares to step outside these roles to seek help, it’s often seen as betrayal. Recognize and reflect on the roles you may have been assigned. Breaking free begins with awareness.

5. “But That’s How We’ve Always Done It”: The Danger of Tradition Without Reflection

Traditions can be beautiful—but when they silence suffering, it’s time to reevaluate.

Just because something has been done a certain way for generations doesn't mean it’s the right way. In fact, silence in the name of tradition can do more harm than good.

Change doesn’t mean disrespect—it means progress. It’s not about rejecting culture but refining it to serve our well-being. Growth begins with honest questions.

Conclusion: From Silence to Strength

Every step toward mental health awareness—especially in immigrant communities—begins with a single, brave voice. By sharing my story, I learned that vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s a bridge to understanding, connection, and healing.

We all have the power to challenge stigma, spark dialogue, and rewrite the narrative for future generations. Speak your truth. Share your story. Break the silence.

Written by Nikita Ugandher

Edited by Carlita L. Coley, LPC

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About the Author

Nikita is a Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) graduate who is passionate about advocating for mental health and social equity, especially in communities and cultures that tend to neglect youth mental health. Nikita will be attending VCU’s graduate Social Work Program in the fall with the career goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and using her multilingual skills to offer culturally responsive therapy to ethnic teens and young adults.