First-generation Pakistani-Canadian men and their experiences with mental health therapy

Background: First-generation Pakistani-Canadian men face unique mental health challenges as they navigate dual cultural identities and societal expectations. However, their experiences with seeking and engaging in mental health therapy remain understudied.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the experiences of first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men who have sought mental health therapy in Canada, exploring their perceptions about becoming a consumer of therapeutic services, and the issues they faced as they engaged in these services.
Method: A qualitative study using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was conducted. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 10 first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men aged 30-45 who had immigrated to Canada between 1975 and 1990 and who had sought mental health support. Interviews were conducted via video conferencing, and were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using IPA principles.

Findings: The analysis revealed several key themes: (1) Challenges faced by first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men, including struggles with dual identity and cultural expectations; (2) Barriers to seeking mental health support, such as stigma, cultural beliefs, and lack of culturally sensitive services; (3) Experiences of therapy, including both positive and negative encounters; (4) Navigating the challenges and complexities of the mental health care system; and (5) Navigating through trauma in individual journeys.

Discussion: The findings highlight the complex interplay between cultural identity, acculturation stress, and mental health for first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men. Participants faced significant challenges in reconciling their cultural heritage with Canadian societal norms, which often contributed to their mental health concerns. While some participants found therapy helpful, others encountered barriers related to cultural misunderstandings and lack of culturally appropriate care.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the mental health experiences of first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men and emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive mental health services. Recommendations include increased cultural competence training for mental health professionals, community outreach programs, and the development of culturally tailored interventions to better serve this population.

Future research may investigate the long-term mental health trajectories of first-generation Pakistani-Canadian men. Specifically, it should examine how factors such as employment status, family dynamics, and community integration influence mental well-being over time. Additionally, further studies could explore the effectiveness of tailored mental health interventions and online therapy platforms in overcoming the accessibility barriers identified in this research. By addressing these critical gaps, mental health professionals, policymakers, and researchers can work towards developing more inclusive and effective mental health care solutions for immigrant populations.