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<p>Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries, with nearly half its population identifying as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD). Among this diversity, African Australians now number nearly 400,000, reflecting global migration trends. Research indicates that people from the Horn of Africa and East Africa are at higher risk of developing psychosis, yet they face significant disparities in mental health care access and quality in Australia. This qualitative study investigates the experiences of 15 healthcare professionals who have worked with African Australian service users. Using semi-structured interviews, Thematic Analysis (TA) and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) the study explores the influence of spirituality, religion, and culture on mental health outcomes. Three key themes as well as subthemes merged: the service user experience (including both positive and negative influences), Intersecting Systemic and Community-Based Barriers to Mental Health Care (Systemic Barriers, Language and Mental Health Literacy, Family and Community Influence on Care Decisions, Internalised Stigma, Dishonour, and Diagnostic Labelling) and Systemic Inadequacies in Addressing Cultural Diversity (Lack of Engagement with Family, Community, and Spiritual Leaders, Diversity in the Mental Health Workforce, Cultural Training for Staff, Need for African Peer Support Workers / Cultural Liaisons, Cultural Formulation and Diagnostic Limitations). The findings highlight a growing disconnect between mainstream mental health services and the specific needs of African Australians. Participants stressed the importance of culturally informed assessments, community engagement, and the inclusion of African liaison officers and workers with lived experience to improve trust and care delivery. They also advocated for increasing workforce diversity and enhancing cultural competence training for practitioners. Such training should include understanding religious and cultural values, using interpreters effectively, and involving families in treatment planning. Overall, the study reveals the urgent need for a culturally responsive mental health framework that addresses systemic barriers and promotes equitable care for African Australians.</p>

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Mental Health Professionals’ Perspectives of the Role of Spirituality, Religion and Culture on the Mental Health of African Australians

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年4月24日

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  • Bekithemba Sibanda,
  • Bindu Joseph,
  • Michael Olasoji

摘要

Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries, with nearly half its population identifying as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD). Among this diversity, African Australians now number nearly 400,000, reflecting global migration trends. Research indicates that people from the Horn of Africa and East Africa are at higher risk of developing psychosis, yet they face significant disparities in mental health care access and quality in Australia. This qualitative study investigates the experiences of 15 healthcare professionals who have worked with African Australian service users. Using semi-structured interviews, Thematic Analysis (TA) and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) the study explores the influence of spirituality, religion, and culture on mental health outcomes. Three key themes as well as subthemes merged: the service user experience (including both positive and negative influences), Intersecting Systemic and Community-Based Barriers to Mental Health Care (Systemic Barriers, Language and Mental Health Literacy, Family and Community Influence on Care Decisions, Internalised Stigma, Dishonour, and Diagnostic Labelling) and Systemic Inadequacies in Addressing Cultural Diversity (Lack of Engagement with Family, Community, and Spiritual Leaders, Diversity in the Mental Health Workforce, Cultural Training for Staff, Need for African Peer Support Workers / Cultural Liaisons, Cultural Formulation and Diagnostic Limitations). The findings highlight a growing disconnect between mainstream mental health services and the specific needs of African Australians. Participants stressed the importance of culturally informed assessments, community engagement, and the inclusion of African liaison officers and workers with lived experience to improve trust and care delivery. They also advocated for increasing workforce diversity and enhancing cultural competence training for practitioners. Such training should include understanding religious and cultural values, using interpreters effectively, and involving families in treatment planning. Overall, the study reveals the urgent need for a culturally responsive mental health framework that addresses systemic barriers and promotes equitable care for African Australians.