Author Identifier
Obed Adonteng-Kissi: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9324-7138
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
International Journal of Social Psychiatry
Publisher
Sage
School
School of Arts and Humanities
Publication Unique Identifier
10.1177/00207640251323050
RAS ID
78458
Funders
Western Sydney University
Abstract
Background: The health of African migrants in Australia is a largely under-researched topic despite the steadily increasing size of the population and its uniqueness. In particular, few studies have explored the mental health of African migrants in Australia or their utilization of mental health services. Aims: This study explored the barriers to mental health help-seeking among first-generation African migrants in Australia. Methods: In this qualitative study conducted using the hermeneutical phenomenological research approach, the purposive sampling method was used to recruit participants. In-depth interviews with participants were undertaken online via Zoom, Teams, and WhatsApp calls. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, utilizing a thematic analysis as the primary data analysis method. Results: African migrants were more inclined to seek support for mental health conditions from religious figures such as priests instead of seeking professional help. Religion and poor knowledge about mental illness were highlighted as barriers to mental health help-seeking. Participants also considered cultural beliefs, fear of stigma as well as the high cost of healthcare in Australia as significant barriers to mental health help-seeking among African migrants. Conclusions: Findings reinforce the critical need for culturally competent mental health services tailored to the beliefs, values, religion, and experiences of African and other migrant communities in Australia. Given the strong attachment of many African migrants in Australia to their cultural and religious beliefs, such services are essential for practical support and intervention.
DOI
10.1177/00207640251323050
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Comments
Meribe, N., Adonteng-Kissi, O., Gatwiri, K., Mwanri, L., Baffour, F. D., Tembo, A., ... & Osuagwu, U. L. (2025). Exploring the barriers to mental health help-seeking among African migrants in Australia: A qualitative study. International Journal of Social Psychiatry. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/00207640251323050