Within These Walls: Exploring the Mental Health Experiences of First Generation South Asian Women in Toronto Canada

This research paper explores the mental health experiences of first-generation South Asian women in Toronto, Canada. This research paper starts by providing a brief overview of mental health literature from a South Asian perspective. A qualitative narrative methodology is used to explore what mental health experiences are faced by first-generation South Asian women and their experience of accessing support services in Toronto. Three individual interviews were conducted. Participants were provided with an opportunity to share their experiences of what mental health and recovery mean to them, the mental health stressors they face, the different barriers they encounter when accessing mental health services, and coping strategies employed. This research contributes to a broader understanding of mental health within the South Asian communities and how mental health service providers can work towards a more inclusive and culturally responsive practice when supporting South Asian women.