Supporting yourself - culturally and linguistically diverse people

“As a recent migrant, I saw a doctor from my own culture who told me that I couldn't have postnatal depression because it only affected Western women! I went to another GP who recognised my condition and was far more empathetic and understanding.”
Suchitra

Overview

Australia is culturally diverse; about 40% of the population is made up of people who have settled in Australia. So if you come from a different cultural background, or speak a different language, you are not alone.

Specialised support can help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds stay healthy as well as get help with mental health issues. Many major mental health organisations have support workers who speak many languages. They also have translated mental health support information on a range of topics. Interpreter services are also available to help you talk with mental health professionals and support services.

Looking after yourself is vital for your overall mental health and wellbeing. This can include eating well, sleeping well, finding meaningful things to do, and connecting with your community.

If you are supporting or want to support a culturally and linguistically diverse person, this page will give you more information. You can also learn more about how to seek support, if you're not sure where to start.

A closer look

Mental health is cultural

In some cultures certain behaviours or symptoms might be seen as part of a personal or spiritual journey; while in others the same behaviours or symptoms might be seen as mental illness. Cultural difference may also influence whether a person will seek help from their family or from health professionals. Online service finders can help culturally and linguistically diverse people locate mental health professionals from similar backgrounds to themselves. (Source)

Some new arrivals have had bad experiences

Migrants and refugees may have had difficult or even traumatic experiences in their home countries or during their path to resettlement in Australia. This can result in ongoing experiences of grief, depression, anger, and other emotional difficulties. Being able to work through these difficulties can depend on accessing the right services in Australia – sometimes a challenging task for new arrivals. Specialised services are available for migrants and refugees, including survivors of torture and trauma. (Source)

Specialised services may help address barriers

People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds may experience barriers to mental health care and support. The barriers can include racism, language difficulties, cultural differences (including stigma associated with mental illness), a lack of knowledge of Australian health systems, and the availability of culturally appropriate services. Specialised support is available; many online services have translated materials and interpreter services. There are also culturally and linguistically diverse support workers. (Source)

Next steps

You might find online and phone-based mental health resources helpful. Some suggestions are below. You can find more with our Search tool.

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Page last updated 11th July 2019

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