Culture and Mental Health: From Conceptualization to Treatment

How do different cultures view mental health and illness? Why is mental health care readily accepted by some ethnic groups, but avoided by others? As clinicians and/or researchers, how do we address mental health and its treatment in ways that is culturally responsive? This course examines how mental health is conceptualized, experienced and addressed across various racially and ethnically diverse groups. We will discuss contemporary and alternative frameworks of mental health and how these influence conceptualizations of mental health, diagnosis, the lived experiences and approaches to help seeking and treatment. Coverage includes social and cultural determinants of mental health, cultural views on mental health issues among diverse groups, and the role of evidence-based practice and culturally grounded treatment among culturally diverse communities.