Understanding Depression in South Asian Families

Depression in South Asian Families: A Hidden Struggle

Depression is one of the most common mental health concerns worldwide, yet it remains deeply misunderstood and stigmatized—especially within many South Asian families. For individuals from Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepali, and Sri Lankan backgrounds, the experience of depression is often minimized or dismissed, leaving people to suffer in silence.

As a psychotherapist offering online therapy in Ontario, I work with many South Asian clients who face the unique challenge of navigating their mental health within cultural and familial expectations. This blog explores how depression is viewed in South Asian households and how culturally sensitive, neurodiversity-affirming support can make a difference.

Why Depression Is Stigmatized in South Asian Communities

1. Cultural Expectations Around Strength and Endurance
In many South Asian families, emotional endurance is considered a sign of strength. Expressing sadness, fatigue, or hopelessness is often interpreted as weakness or a personal failing. Mental health struggles may be seen as something to “get over” rather than a condition that requires understanding and support.

2. Misunderstanding of Mental Health
There is often limited mental health literacy in South Asian households. Depression may be perceived as laziness, a lack of discipline, or even “drama.” Without the language to describe emotional pain, individuals may somaticize their symptoms—reporting physical ailments like headaches or fatigue rather than admitting to emotional distress.

3. Fear of Social Judgment and Shame (“Log Kya Kahenge”)
The fear of “log kya kahenge” (what will people say) can silence individuals experiencing depression. The pressure to maintain a perfect image—especially for women—often means suppressing struggles to avoid bringing “shame” to the family. Seeking therapy may be viewed as unnecessary, indulgent, or a last resort.

4. Gender Roles and Emotional Suppression
In traditional family systems, men are expected to be stoic and emotionally detached, while women are expected to be self-sacrificing and emotionally resilient. Both roles leave little room for vulnerability. Depression in men may manifest as irritability or withdrawal, while women may over-function and people-please until they burn out.

What Depression Can Look Like in South Asian Clients

Depression doesn’t always look like sadness. In South Asian individuals, it may appear as:

Constant fatigue or low energy
Irritability or anger
Feeling numb or disconnected
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Changes in sleep and appetite
Feeling like a burden or failure
Struggling silently to maintain family roles and responsibilities

These symptoms may go unnoticed or be misattributed to stress, overwork, or even spiritual issues, leading to delays in seeking help.

Breaking the Cycle with Culturally Sensitive Psychotherapy

Healing starts with being seen, heard, and understood. In my online therapy practice in Ontario, I offer a culturally affirming space where South Asian clients can explore their experiences without fear of judgment.

Here’s how therapy can help:

Unpack internalized stigma and rewrite narratives around strength and vulnerability
Navigate family expectations while protecting your mental well-being
Develop coping strategies that honour your cultural background
Feel seen in your full identity, including intersections of gender, culture, neurodivergence, and migration

I provide neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy and support clients in English, Hindi, and Gujarati. Therapy is not covered by OHIP, but many insurance plans do cover the cost.

You Deserve to Feel Better

If you or someone you care about is experiencing depression and feeling alone in the struggle, know that support is available. Therapy can be a powerful step toward healing—especially when it honours your cultural identity.

Book a free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit. Email me at krishnavoratherapy@gmail.com. I’m currently accepting new clients across Ontario for online therapy.

Krishna Vora Therapy