South Asian Women
South Asian women, in particular, often feel that enduring mental distress is simply a part of life rather than something for which they should seek help. Many feel pressured to maintain an image of control or worry about becoming a burden on others.
These norms also dictate that South Asian women adhere to standards of perfection, obedience, and subservience. This places immense pressure on women to remain silent and conform to unrealistic expectations. Women’s voices have been silenced for many generations within the South Asian community, with the norm of not speaking out when necessary or having opinions. For instance, South Asian women are often expected to do everything and sacrifice themselves not only for their immediate family but also for their spouse’s family and in-laws. These too can lead to feelings of inadequacy, depression, low self-esteem, and low self-confidence.
Women who speak out against abuse, injustice, and oppression are often dismissed, silenced, or even punished. They frequently face social rejection for going against their families and communities, further perpetuating the cycle of oppression. This makes it even more challenging for South Asian women to break free from traditional cultural constraints.
Challenges faced by South Asian Women:
- Cultural Assimilation Stress – South Asian immigrant women may experience stress related to balancing traditional values with the norms of the host country, leading to identity conflicts and isolation.
- Domestic Violence – Rates of domestic violence can be high in South Asian communities, and women may face barriers to seeking help due to cultural taboos and fear of repercussions, along with education about what constitutes abusive behaviour. Many behaviours have been witnessed in childhood and thus become the norm. This can have significant negative implications on mental health.
- Professional Success – Challenges such as cultural expectations, workplace discrimination, and balancing work and family persist. Self-esteem, self-worth and self-beliefs to be successful. are not normally engrained.
- Reproductive Health – Issues such as infertility, pregnancy-related stress, and postpartum depression may be particularly sensitive topics due to cultural expectations around marriage and family.
- Sexual Health – Discussions around sexual health, including contraception and sexually transmitted infections, are often taboo and can impact women’s well-being.
Therapists are sensitive to the unique cultural and social contexts that shape South Asian women’s experiences and perceptions of mental health.