A Review of Factors Contributing to Asian Americans' Underutilization of Mental Health Services
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47611/jsrhs.v13i1.6398Keywords:
Asian American, Mental health, Help-seeking, Mental health services, StigmaAbstract
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) people are three times less likely than white Americans to seek any type of mental health care services or resources. Understanding this phenomenon requires a nuanced approach due to the cultural differences and heterogeneity within Asian American (AA) communities. The purpose of this review is to explore the multitude of factors that contribute to the underutilization of mental health services among AAs. I will synthesize peer-reviewed articles that cover factors contributing to AAs’ attitudes and behaviors related to mental health and mental health services. Primary mechanisms include stigma and shame, knowledge and beliefs about mental health treatment, and access to care. Additionally, implications for understanding and treating AA communities will be discussed.
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