Obstacles to identification, help-seeking behaviour and treatment of depression in East Asian men : the role of gender and culture

Abstract

The low prevalence rate of depression in East Asian males is inconsistent with the prevalence rates for other indicators of depression, such as suicide. This paper aims to investigate factors concerning the prevalence rate of East Asian male depression by addressing three barriers to the diagnosis and treatment of depression in East Asian males: (a) complexity in identification of the disorder; (b) reluctance in seeking help; and (c) inadequate treatment conditions. We identify gendered and cultural causes, such as East Asian males’ atypical presentation of symptoms and reporting behaviours. East Asian males are unwilling to seek help due to pressures to conform to norms of masculinity, as well as face-saving notions imposed by the collective. Common treatment means to treat, such as the therapeutic dialogue, may not be suited to the specific needs of this group. In summary, gender and cultural factors hinder East Asian males from receiving necessary treatment by complicating processes of diagnosis, preventing help seeking, and decreasing the efficacy of treatment. It is also the intent of this review to raise awareness of the significance of gender and culture so that patients and practitioners alike can better manage the disorder.