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Mental health challenges often carry a cultural stigma, especially within South Asian communities. Many individuals face barriers to accessing support, whether due to societal expectations, family pressures, or lack of culturally relevant resources. Thankfully, several organizations in New Zealand and globally are providing much-needed support and advocacy for South Asians affected by mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, gambling harm, and more. Here’s an overview of five key organizations making a significant difference.
Shakti Mental Health
Shakti Mental Health is an organization dedicated to addressing mental health challenges within South Asian communities in New Zealand. Their mission is to break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a safe space for individuals to discuss their struggles.
Case Studies:
- Divya: A young woman grappling with depression and anxiety due to family expectations and cultural pressures. Shakti’s support empowered her to openly discuss her mental health struggles, eventually leading her to regain control over her well-being.
- Sakhi Saheli: A program specifically for South Asian women, focusing on empowering those affected by domestic violence and mental health issues. Through counselling and peer support, Sakhi Saheli helps women navigate trauma, regain self-esteem, and find pathways to healing.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Normalizing mental health discussions within South Asian culture.
- Support for individuals affected by trauma, mental health issues, and social challenges.
- Building a community that fosters understanding and open dialogue.
For more information, visit: Shakti Mental Health
Asian Family Services
Asian Family Services, established in 1998, is New Zealand’s only provider dedicated to supporting Asian people affected by gambling harm and mental health issues. With a multilingual team offering services in Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, Thai, and Hindi, they offer nationwide confidential and comprehensive services.
Key Services:
- Counselling, education, and support for Asian families and individuals.
- Specialized focus on gambling harm and mental health challenges.
- Services in multiple languages, ensuring cultural relevance and accessibility.
For more information, visit: Asian Family Services
Sahaayta
Sahaayta provides culturally sensitive counselling and support primarily for South Asian migrant and refugee families in New Zealand. The organization aims to support individuals and families facing mental health challenges, trauma, grief, and the stresses of migration.
Key Services:
- Culturally appropriate counselling for individuals, couples, families, and youth.
- Addressing issues such as grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, and domestic violence.
- Support for migrants and refugees through workshops, seminars, and culturally relevant programs.
Programs Offered:
- Sitaare: A program for children aged 6-14 who have experienced family harm.
- Saveraa: A 12-week program for women aimed at breaking the cycle of violence.
- Ahimsa: A non-violence program focusing on anger management and communication.
- Sahaara: Monthly coffee groups focused on community connection and support for migrant women.
For more information, visit: Sahaayta
SOCH (South Asian Community Health)
SOCH is committed to raising awareness about critical issues affecting the South Asian community, such as family harm, substance abuse, sexual violence, and mental health. Their programs focus on educating youth and adults, helping them develop practical skills to overcome challenges and improve their well-being.
Key Services:
- Community education on topics like family harm, alcohol and drug abuse, and sexual violence.
- Support and advocacy for individuals affected by these issues.
- Awareness programs designed to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage healthy coping strategies.
For more information, visit: SOCH
SAHMIN (South Asian Health, Mental Health, and Inclusion Network)
SAHMIN is a global network focused on improving the mental health and well-being of South Asians worldwide. Their goal is to provide culturally competent care, promote mental health awareness, and ensure that South Asians have access to support and resources tailored to their unique needs.
Key Services:
- Community support for South Asians dealing with mental health challenges, trauma, and substance abuse.
- Advocacy for the inclusion of South Asian perspectives in mental health discussions globally.
- Promoting mental health literacy and reducing stigma within South Asian communities.
For more information, visit: SAHMIN
These organizations are critical in supporting South Asians in New Zealand and globally who are facing mental health challenges, trauma, and gambling harm. They offer culturally sensitive services that break down barriers to care and provide resources for those in need. By supporting these initiatives, we can help build stronger communities, reduce stigma, and empower individuals to seek the help they deserve. You are not alone.
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