Conceptualizing Mental Health Through Bhutanese Refugee Lens: Findings from a Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Despite the rapidly growing need to understand mental health challenges faced by refugee subpopulations, there is a dearth of literature exploring mental health conceptualization through the unique refugee lens. Guided by historical trauma theory, we gathered data using a two-phase explanatory sequential mixed-methods study (quantitative: n = 40; qualitative: n = 6) in a Midwestern U.S. region to understand mental health conceptualization from the Bhutanese refugee perspective by examining the cultural meaning and perception of mental health, describing experiences of mental health problems, and examining cultural protective factors and coping strategies. We argue that recognition of refugees' conceptualization of mental health and identification of cultural protective factors is paramount to healing. Findings emphasize the need to understand historical and cultural perspectives in cross-cultural contexts for the development and implementation of culturally responsive services. Our study also contributes to emerging knowledge on methodological rigor in research among understudied, hard-to-reach, small populations.

Keywords: Bhutanese refugees; Historical trauma; Mental health; Mixed methods.