Why do many South Asians regard mental illness as taboo?

[shastarSingh]

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-36489893

[jkvlondon]

probably because more than 50% will be found out ... to S Asians image is more important than anything else

[ManniSingh]

Nice topic and one the needs to be addressed/discussed in more detail.

1. its a lack of knowledge of the issue

2. outright fear caused by a lack of knowledge

3. Not wanting to accept that their loved one has a problem

4. many people often go into deep depression without really even knowing about it, got to stay happy and positive, AVOID negative people 

 

 

 

[shastarSingh]

One of my close Uncles is a very big doctor and he told me some time back that stress and depression related problems are very high in number and both teenagers as well as oldies suffer from such problems.

So, yes our community needs to open up to these problems.

[ManniSingh]

Sometimes women dealing with alcoholic husbands or out of control children develop depression and need support and find it in spirituality- that's the big help of religion 

many men who don't quite make it in life or are unhappy with their jobs or children turn to alcohol instead of religion to deal with depression esp as they feel emabarassed to talk to anyone as it may make them look weak!       

More women turn to faith than men as they at least can open up to other women quicker. Whereas as a man we want to look tough and will be seen as weak if we talk bout feelings

Life is too short it's best to try and smile and make others smile esp loved ones and try to avoid upsetting loved ones esp our elders 

 

 

 

 

 

[ManniSingh]

Our people also have added stress of culture bezti and worrying bout izzat and wider family etc