Mental Health System

Coping with day-to-day problems varies between cultures. Asian Americans may emphasize restraint and may discourage dwelling on morbid or upsetting thoughts, believing that avoidance of troubling internal events is preferred to outward expression. Outward expression may disrupt social harmony, a highly valued commodity.

African Americans may tend to emphasize willpower, increased striving and minimization of stress as coping mechanisms.

Many members of ethnic minorities seek support and reassurance through spiritual organizations or religious figures in their community rather than assistance through a mental health provider.