Anxiety disorders include conditions such as Generalized Anxiety  Disorder (GAD), Panic disorders (with or without Agoraphobia), Specific phobias, Social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism. In general, for a person to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the fear or anxiety must be out of proportion to the situation, age inappropriate and hinder the person’s ability to function normally. Such disorders are usually self diagnosable and can be treated with the help of a mental health professional through therapy and medication. These disorders can also be self treated, with the help of right guidance.

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The Influence of Culture on Understanding Anxiety

South Asian cultures are usually family- and society oriented. This means that in countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives, cultural factors influence the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of anxiety disorders. In the results found in a study, it is prevalent that South and East Asian countries accounted for 23% of all anxiety cases. This shows that South Asian countries face a deep, unmet need for mental health. Symptoms are frequently disregarded due to a lack of education and awareness.The cultural perception of anxiety disorder has changed a lot in the past century. Anxiety disorders have a tendency to be stigmatised and misconceptualized. In earlier times, up until the end of the 20th century, anxiety disorders were considered taboo, and people seeking help for such conditions were considered “mad” or “crazy”. Shame has been linked to anxiety in South Asian countries, and studies have shown that shame has a more important role to play in social anxiety, but thankfully the stigma around it has reduced significantly.

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With the rapid westernisation of the world, increasing technology and social media use, there have been numerous efforts made to educate the population about mental health, anxiety disorders and the need for treatment. International organisations have also taken an active effort in the destigmatization of mental health disorders, such as the announcement of ‘Mental Health Gap Action Programme’ (MHGAP). Its goal is to help more people with mental and psychological disorders in low-middle-income countries.

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Breaking Barriers & Embracing Open-Mindedness

Even though the cultural perception of anxiety disorders still remains complex, it is clearly being affected by traditional beliefs and societal norms. But, fortunately, while stereotypes, stigmas, and misconceptions still pose barriers to mental health promotion, there is significant hope for improvement in the recognition and acceptance of mental health issues. Increased social media awareness, education, and advocacy are proving to be beneficial in this journey of destigmatization. As South Asian countries continue to grow and flourish, so does the positive perception of mental health awareness and the need for help. "There is no health without mental health", says the World Health Organisation. Because of this, we should rethink mental health as a top priority.

For professional support, reach out to a mental health expert at Heart It Out today!