Mental Health Stigmas

Mental Health has been an endless battle in AMEMSA households for years now. As younger generations mature and begin to face the world, new priorities are established.

Many of us are the children of AMEMSA immigrants and grew up hearing stories of our parents’ intense struggles. Our elders immigrated to give future generations better opportunities and the ability to build a life without those same hardships. Despite this, new obstacles have emerged that first-generation AMEMSA-identifying individuals must face. One of these struggles includes mental health.

While mental disorders do not discriminate, affecting about 25% of the population, the Middle East has the highest rate of mental illness out of any other region. Why is it, then, that Arabs are so scared of talking about mental health? Ultimately, stigmas about mental health stem from a fear of being judged, ridiculed or labeled by others in the AMEMSA community. This negative mentality has become a cultural norm. Mental health being taboo has become part of the tradition- the Arab way of thinking.

Perhaps these stigmas can be traced back to our ancestors and their upbringing. It may seem silly to mention feeling depressed when your parents were facing intense discrimination and fighting to survive at the same age. Our struggles almost seem like a privilege when compared to the struggles of our parents and/or grandparents. Despite this, we must remember that our struggles and fears are still valid, and do not need to be validated by others for them to be real.

The children of immigrants also face consistent pressure from their parents and family to perform and accomplish the things they feel they couldn’t at our age. They push their expectations onto us and leave little to no room for negotiation. Because of this, so many have had to keep aspects of their lives hidden from their parents and family. “They wouldn’t understand.” “I can’t tell my parents about this.” “He said it’s all in my head, depression isn’t real.” “I can’t seem weak. I’ll be okay.” These thoughts are suffocating and I know so many in the AMEMSA community have shared them.

Similarly to Middle Easterners and Arabs, South Asians brought their fears and biases with them when they came to America. In many of these cultures, mental illnesses are not seen as illnesses, but rather products of hysteria and dramatics. AMEMSA people often pride themselves on being intelligent, resilient, successful, and adaptable. How can such strong people be disabled by an ‘illness’ they cannot even see? This mentality has silenced the voices of so many from reaching out and seeking help.

As the next generation, it’s up to us to break down the stigmas and fight against toxic cultural norms. Studies have shown that the best way to break the stigma, is to be vocal. Share your experiences with those who will listen and show them that they’re not alone. 75% of teens seeking help with their depression said they were searching for personal stories from those with past experiences. If you want to help others, talk openly, educate yourself, and show compassion. You never know, you could end up helping someone find the road to recovery.

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For information on how to get immediate help and/or guidance, click here or visit 988lifeline.org to talk to someone.