Perceptions Toward Mental Illness and Seeking Psychological Help among Bhutanese Refugees Resettled in the U.S.

Abstract

This study examined perceptions toward mental health and seeking psychological care among Bhutanese refugees in a large Midwestern U.S. city. Bhutanese adults (n = 201) completed a community health needs assessment. Survey questions addressed beliefs toward mental health and seeking psychological care. Perceptions toward mental illness and receiving psychological help were generally negative among participants. Over 71% believed others would look unfavorably on a person who sought out a counselor. Participants who had less than a high school education, were 35 years and older, and lived in refugee camps for more than 20 years had significantly greater negative beliefs toward mental illness. Over one-third (34.8%) of participants reported access to counseling services as being somewhat of a problem or a serious problem. These findings may inform future research and interventions aimed at improving mental health among Bhutanese refugees.