Correlates of mental health service use and type among Asian Americans

Adm Policy Ment Health. 2014 Jul;41(4):543-51. doi: 10.1007/s10488-013-0493-5.

Abstract

This study uses data from the National Latino and Asian American Study to investigate correlates of mental health service use among Asian Americans with mental health needs. Our study contributes to the extant literature by: (1) differentiating between mental health service use types; and (2) examining a broader swatch of Asian Americans with mental health needs, ranging from mild to severe cases. Multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed heterogeneity in service use patterns by ethnicity, age, marital status, English proficiency, and generation status. Unmet mental health needs continue to be a problem despite treatments that could improve the quality of life of Asian Americans. Our study provides a more nuanced understanding of mental health service utilization patterns in this understudied population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asian / statistics & numerical data*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Mental Health Services / statistics & numerical data*
  • Severity of Illness Index