Understanding South Asian Mental Health in the UK

Who are “South Asians” in the UK context?

In the UK, the term "South Asian" generally refers to people with roots in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan and the Maldives. According to estimates, the Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi communities make up approximately 3.1%, 2.7%, and 1.1% of the British population, respectively, with other South Asian communities contributing further to this diversity (Cambridge, 2022).

These communities are far from homogeneous. They include multiple religions such as Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Christianity and others, as well as a wide range of languages, family structures, cultural traditions and migration stories. Understanding this complexity is key to providing meaningful and relevant mental health support.

A brief historical context

Many South Asians arrived in the UK after the Partition of India in 1947 and during the post-war labour shortages. Over the decades, communities established themselves across the country. Today, many South Asians in the UK are second or third generation, navigating the balance between cultural heritage and British society. These generational dynamics, along with historical experiences of migration and marginalisation, continue to shape how mental health is experienced and understood.

Mental health statistics in South Asian communities

Mental health issues are common across South Asian groups in the UK, but they are often underreported and undertreated. Some key findings include:

• 64% of South Asians in the UK said they had worried about their mental health in the past year (Asian Express, 2024)

• 42% reported symptoms of depression, and 29% reported symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder (Eastern Eye, 2024)

• A study of older South Asian adults (aged 58–88) found depressive symptoms in 15.5% of participants, compared to 9.7% in their White European peers (PubMed, 2015)

• Only 6.5% of Asian individuals with common mental disorders accessed talking therapy services, compared to 9.7% of White individuals (Health Unlidded, 2023)

• NHS data shows that 3,133 per 100,000 "Asian" individuals accessed mental health, learning disability and autism services, compared to 4,820 per 100,000 "White" individuals (Gov.uk, 2023)

These figures suggest not only a high prevalence of distress but also a concerning gap in access and support.

Common mental health challenges in South Asian communities

Cultural stigma around mental health

In many South Asian families, mental illness is still seen as a taboo topic. There may be a strong fear of judgement, bringing shame on the family, or being perceived as weak. This stigma can prevent individuals from opening up or even acknowledging their struggles (Time to Change, 2021). In some communities, emotional suffering is often expressed as physical symptoms, making it harder to diagnose and treat.

Intergenerational and identity conflict

Second and third-generation South Asians often find themselves caught between two cultures - the traditions of their families and the values of the wider British society. Expectations around marriage, career, religion and family obligations can clash with personal values or goals. This internal tension can lead to feelings of anxiety, identity confusion and burnout (Scientia News, 2024).

Socioeconomic and environmental stress

Some South Asian communities face multiple socioeconomic stressors, including unemployment, overcrowded housing, discrimination, and limited access to green spaces and healthcare. These environmental pressures significantly impact mental health and wellbeing (National Elf Service, 2023).

Barriers to accessing mental health services

Even when someone wants to access support, they may face practical and cultural barriers. These can include:

• A lack of culturally competent therapists

• Language difficulties and poor translation services

• A lack of trust in mainstream healthcare

• Fear of being misunderstood or judged

• Western approaches that may not align with collectivist family values (PubMed, 2021)

These factors often result in delays in seeking help, or people not accessing support at all.

The importance of culturally aware counselling

Culturally sensitive therapy can be life-changing for South Asian clients. When a therapist understands the influence of culture, family, faith and community, the counselling process feels safer and more effective. Key elements of this kind of support include:

• Offering therapy in multiple languages

• Understanding South Asian family dynamics and values

• Exploring the role of religion and faith in mental health

• Being mindful of gender roles, generational expectations and stigma

• Creating space for issues like racism, Islamophobia or post-colonial trauma

Online counselling is also particularly valuable. It offers privacy, flexibility, and accessibility, especially for people who may feel uncomfortable visiting a therapy office in person or who live in areas with few therapists who understand their cultural background.

Why this matters

Mental health support for South Asian communities in the UK needs to be more than just available, it needs to be relevant. Culturally aware counselling, especially through accessible platforms like online therapy, can bridge the current gaps and help more people find the care they deserve.

As a therapist offering online counselling tailored to South Asian clients, I aim to create a safe, respectful and culturally attuned space where people can explore their struggles without fear of judgement or misunderstanding.

If you're seeking support

If you are from a South Asian background and looking for support, please know you are not alone. I offer online counselling that respects your culture, faith and lived experience. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, family pressures, identity conflict or just need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out for a free initial consultation.

Helpful Resources

• South Asian Health Action (SAHA)
  A charity promoting better health and wellbeing within South Asian communities through education and empowerment.

• Simply Connect London – ARCC’s ‘Unfolding Layers’ Project
  Offers free, culturally appropriate mental health support, including counselling and group therapy for South Asian communities.

• Sahil Project
  Provides culturally sensitive mental health and wellbeing services, supporting Asian women facing stress and isolation.

• Rethink Sahayak Asian Mental Health Helpline
  A helpline offering culturally sensitive support in multiple South Asian languages.

• Platform Southall
  A community organisation offering advocacy, resources, and support to South Asian communities across the UK.

• Southeast and East Asian Centre (SEEAC)
  Provides counselling, community support, and social welfare advice for Southeast and East Asian migrant communities.

• BAME Hub-UK Network
  Connects BAME individuals with culturally competent mental health professionals and peer support groups.

• Mental Health UK – Master Resource List
  A comprehensive resource directory for mental health support across the UK.