Mental Health Challenges & Supports for Bangladeshis Worldwide

Imagine you’re a Bangladeshi living abroad, struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, all while being far from your family and community support. As a Non-Resident Bangladeshi (NRB), you may find yourself caught between cultural expectations and the stigma surrounding mental health, making it even more difficult to seek professional help.

Research indicates that South Asians (SA), including Bangladeshis, face significant barriers when it comes to accessing mental health services. For instance, studies in the UK show that South Asians rarely seek professional help for mental health problems (Prajapati & Liebling, 2021). This trend is particularly evident among British Bangladeshis, who face challenges such as high rates of workless households, poor health, and societal pressures to uphold traditional masculine roles (Ali, 2006; Darko, 2021). These pressures often discourage men from seeking help, as they are expected to be the primary providers for their families, creating a mental toll that is rarely addressed (Willott & Griffin, 1996).

Such challenges are not unique to the UK. NRBs around the world, including in the Middle East, North America, and Europe, often struggle with finding culturally competent mental health care. Unfortunately, the services available are frequently not tailored to meet the specific cultural and social needs of NRBs. For instance, couple therapy for NRBs or psychotherapy in Bangladesh is often not designed to address the nuanced challenges faced by the diaspora community.

In this article, we delve into the specific barriers NRBs face when seeking mental health treatment, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive psychotherapy and accessible couple therapy. By incorporating findings from Dr. Shah Alam’s recent qualitative study (2023), which explored the experiences of British-Bangladeshi men, we aim to offer a deeper understanding of these challenges and how culturally appropriate interventions can help address them.

Methods: Understanding the Mental Health Challenges Faced by NRBs

In exploring the mental health challenges faced by Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs), the author conducted qualitative interviews with British-Bangladeshi men aged 22-59. These individuals scored moderate to severe on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), which are commonly used tools for screening depression and anxiety. The study aimed to focus on those who were managing their mental health without professional intervention, excluding participants considered “high-risk” or those already receiving mental health support.

A total of 54 participants were recruited through social media platforms and leaflet distribution. These individuals were screened for depression and anxiety levels using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 questionnaires, administered via Qualtrics, an online survey platform. The qualitative data was then analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, a method that allowed for an in-depth understanding of the participants’ experiences and the barriers they faced in accessing mental health services. Data saturation was reached after interviewing 12 participants, providing rich insights into the lived experiences of NRBs dealing with mental health challenges in isolation, without the support of traditional mental health services.

This research methodology sheds light on the coping mechanisms and unique struggles NRBs encounter when navigating mental health care, further emphasizing the need for culturally competent psychotherapy and accessible mental health support for this community.

Primary Paper: Alam, S. (2023). British-Bangladeshi Muslim men: removing barriers to mental health support and effectively supporting our community. The Cognitive Behaviour Therapist, 16, e38.

Results: Uncovering the Key Barriers to Mental Health Access

The study revealed a range of barriers preventing Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) from accessing mental health services. These challenges are not confined to a single country but are prevalent across different regions, highlighting universal struggles within the NRB community.

1. Cultural Stigma

In countries such as the United States, UAE, and Canada, cultural stigma around mental health is a persistent issue. Within the Bangladeshi community, seeking therapy is often perceived as a sign of weakness or failure, making it difficult for individuals to acknowledge their mental health struggles. This stigma is particularly pronounced among Bangladeshi men, who feel societal pressure to remain emotionally strong and avoid appearing vulnerable.

2. Language Barriers

For NRBs in nations like Saudi Arabia or the United States, language barriers create significant obstacles. Many NRBs feel uncomfortable or misunderstood when discussing their mental health in a non-native language, such as English or Arabic. This challenge is compounded by the lack of culturally competent therapists who can communicate in Bengali or address the specific needs of the Bangladeshi community.

3. Economic and Social Isolation

Economic challenges play a critical role in limiting access to mental health care. In the Middle East, many NRBs work long hours in demanding jobs, often to send money back to their families in Bangladesh. These economic pressures leave little time or resources for seeking therapy. Additionally, social isolation caused by living away from family or community support systems contributes to heightened levels of stress and emotional distress.

4. Fear of Stigma and Family Disapproval

In Canada and the United States, many NRBs avoid mental health care due to a fear of family disapproval. Concerns about being judged as weak or incapable by their families deter individuals from seeking professional help. This fear is intensified by traditional expectations for men to act as providers and maintain a facade of strength, leading to unaddressed mental health needs.

Research Insight

The study found that:

• Over 60% of participants avoided mental health services due to cultural stigma.
• 40% cited language barriers as a primary obstacle to seeking care.

These findings underscore the urgent need for accessible, culturally sensitive mental health services that address the unique experiences and challenges of NRBs globally.

Different Understandings of Mental Distress: Cultural Perceptions of Mental Health

For Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs), mental distress is often interpreted through a cultural lens that downplays its seriousness as a medical condition. Whether in the United States, the Middle East, or other regions, issues like depression, anxiety, and stress are frequently viewed as personal weaknesses or failures in character rather than legitimate health concerns. This mindset creates a significant barrier to recognizing symptoms and seeking professional help.

A participant from the study revealed:

“I thought feeling down was just part of life. I didn’t know it was a health issue until I started talking to others.”

This sentiment reflects a widespread gap in understanding within NRB communities, where conversations about mental health remain taboo or misunderstood. Such cultural perceptions highlight the pressing need for education and awareness campaigns tailored to NRBs, aiming to normalize discussions about mental health and foster understanding that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward well-being.

Traditional Cultural Expectations: The Weight of “Honor” and “Strength”

Among NRBs, traditional cultural expectations, especially the notions of “honor” and “strength,” significantly influence how mental health is perceived and addressed. In regions from Saudi Arabia to the United States, these expectations are deeply ingrained, particularly for men, who are seen as the family’s emotional and financial pillars. Admitting to mental distress is often seen as a failure to uphold these roles, leading to a profound fear of judgment from both family and the wider community.

One participant shared:

“My wife and I were struggling, but I felt like admitting it would make me seem weak. Instead of addressing our issues, I kept it inside, and it only made things worse.”

This reflects the internal conflict many NRBs face—balancing traditional ideals with the emotional toll of living abroad. The pressure to suppress vulnerability and conform to cultural expectations can prevent NRBs from seeking help, further exacerbating their mental health challenges. Addressing these barriers requires fostering open dialogues about mental health within NRB communities and emphasizing that seeking support aligns with, rather than contradicts, their strength and resilience.

Coping Resources: How NRBs Navigate Mental Health Challenges

Despite significant barriers, Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) have developed various coping mechanisms to manage their mental health challenges:

Religious Coping

For many NRBs in countries like the United States and UAE, religion plays a central role in emotional resilience. Practices such as prayer, meditation, and engaging with religious communities provide a sense of solace and hope. However, while this form of coping offers temporary comfort, it often falls short of addressing underlying mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Community Support

In regions with larger NRB populations, such as Canada, community networks serve as informal mental health resources. Social gatherings, cultural events, and support from friends and family help NRBs feel connected to their roots and reduce feelings of isolation. Still, these informal support systems cannot replace the benefits of professional mental health care, which remains out of reach for many due to stigma and other barriers.

Self-Care Practices

In countries like Saudi Arabia, where many NRBs experience social and physical isolation, self-care has become a critical coping tool. Activities like exercise, cooking, or engaging in hobbies help individuals manage stress in the short term. However, these strategies only provide temporary relief and fail to address the root causes of mental health struggles.

Barriers to Access: The Lack of Accessible, Culturally Competent Services

Across countries such as Canada, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, one of the most significant challenges NRBs face is the absence of culturally competent mental health services. Many therapists lack the training to understand the unique cultural and emotional needs of Bangladeshi NRBs, and language barriers further complicate effective communication.

Financial constraints also pose a significant hurdle. NRBs in low-paying jobs or working multiple shifts to send money home often cannot afford professional therapy. As a result, many rely on self-management strategies, which are rarely sufficient to address serious mental health conditions.

Community Outreach and Collaboration: A Path Forward

Addressing the barriers NRBs face requires collaborative and innovative solutions tailored to their unique needs. Emerging initiatives in countries like the United States, Canada, and the UAE highlight the following promising approaches:

Increasing Cultural Competence

Training therapists to understand the cultural and emotional nuances of NRBs is vital. Therapy in native languages such as Bengali, coupled with culturally sensitive approaches, can make mental health care more accessible and effective.

Peer Support Networks

In regions like Canada, NRBs are establishing peer support groups that create safe, judgment-free spaces to share experiences and coping strategies. These networks bridge the gap between informal community support and professional care, empowering individuals to seek further assistance.

Telehealth Services: Chum Wellness Leading the Way

With the rise of telehealth platforms, access to mental health care is becoming more feasible for NRBs, even in remote or underserved areas. Platforms like Chum Wellness are addressing this gap by providing easy-to-book virtual therapy sessions with trained, culturally competent professionals.
Through Chum Wellness, NRBs can:

• Connect with therapists fluent in Bengali, ensuring a comfortable communication environment.
• Book sessions conveniently online, eliminating logistical barriers.
• Access tailored mental health programs that respect cultural values and individual needs.

Chum Wellness offers a scalable and effective solution to ensure NRBs have access to culturally appropriate mental health support, no matter where they are located.

Recommendations and Future Directions

To address the mental health challenges faced by Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs), a multi-faceted approach is essential. The following recommendations provide actionable steps to improve mental health access, reduce stigma, and ensure culturally competent care:

Policy Changes and Advocacy

Governments and organizations should prioritize mental health services tailored to NRBs. Subsidized telehealth programs, tax incentives for culturally competent practices, and integration of mental health support into primary healthcare systems can make professional help more accessible.

Community Engagement and Leadership

NRB community leaders and cultural organizations can play a pivotal role in normalizing conversations about mental health. By organizing workshops, peer support groups, and cultural events focused on well-being, these leaders can help break stigma and foster a supportive environment. Collaborative initiatives between NRB communities and mental health organizations can also bridge gaps in understanding and access.

Leveraging Technology for Accessibility

Expanding telehealth platforms like Chum Wellness, which offers culturally sensitive psychotherapy and couple therapy booking services, can revolutionize mental health access for NRBs. By providing therapy in Bengali and understanding the unique cultural challenges of the NRB community, such services ensure inclusivity. Moreover, mental health apps designed specifically for NRBs could include self-help resources, crisis helplines, and guided meditation in native languages.

Awareness Campaigns to Break Stigma

Mental health awareness campaigns targeting NRBs are crucial. Partnerships with diasporic organizations, media outlets, and influencers can help educate the community about recognizing mental health issues and the importance of seeking professional help. Such campaigns should focus on dismantling cultural myths that label mental distress as a weakness.

Enhanced Research and Data Collection

Further research is needed to understand the evolving mental health needs of NRBs. Conducting longitudinal studies, creating a global database of culturally competent therapists, and collecting data on the effectiveness of interventions can inform future policies and services.

Conclusions: Bridging the Gap in Mental Health Care for NRBs

Mental health challenges among Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) are deeply influenced by cultural, emotional, and social dynamics, varying across regions and personal circumstances. These complexities highlight the urgent need for tailored approaches to mental health care that acknowledge and respect the unique experiences of NRBs.

By fostering culturally sensitive services, such as Chum Wellness’s telehealth offerings, and encouraging community-driven initiatives, NRBs can gain better access to the mental health support they require. Increased awareness campaigns, peer networks, and the integration of technology are vital in dismantling stigma and bridging gaps in care.

As global awareness grows about the distinctive needs of NRBs, the pathway to equitable and effective mental health care becomes clearer. Empowering NRBs to address their mental health without fear or judgment is a shared responsibility—and one that promises a healthier, more resilient future for this vital community.