Purpose of review: To understand pathways into healthcare people of minority ethnic groups use and if these differ from those of the majority.
Recent findings: The current literature shows that some forms of treatment are seen as less stigmatizing and more acceptable. The treatment expectations also dictate choice of healthcare providers.
Summary: Black and ethnic minority patients may have different explanatory models, which will influence the way they seek help and the sources of help available to them. There are also clear ethnic variations in prevalence of different psychiatric disorders and thus in accessing mental healthcare services. Engaging patients into therapeutic adherence is crucial in the context of their expectations and explanatory models.