Examining the effectiveness of mental health workshops in reducing mental illness self and social stigma among Asian men in Vancouver, Canada: a randomized control trial
Date
2022
Authors
Patel, Natasha
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Health Sciences
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Health Sciences
Abstract
Background: Asian men may be more susceptible to stigmatizing attitudes towards mental illness and treatment due to the gendered and cultural expectations created by society, compared to Asian women, which may delay or prevent this population from seeking professional help.
Research Hypothesis: All interventions will be effective in reducing self and social stigma, as measured by ISMI and CAMI scores. Furthermore, ACT participation will be effective in reducing self stigma and CEE participation will be effective in reducing social stigma. Lastly, ACT+CEE participation will be effective in reducing self and social stigma.
Methods: Data from a randomized control trial (RCT) were used to examine Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), Contact-based Empowerment and Education (CEE), and ACT + CEE anti-stigma interventions and a control group on their effectiveness in reducing self and social stigma. Data have been collected using the ISMI and the CAMI scales to assess self and social stigma, respectively. These self-reported questionnaires have been administered at baseline/pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, 3 months post-intervention, and 6 months post-intervention.
Statistical Methods: Repeated measures ANOVA were performed to determine if there was a significant interaction between the intervention and multiple time points on ISMI and CAMI scores. Linear mixed effects models were performed on ISMI and CAMI composite scores to control for confounding.
Results: No significant differences in ISMI scores were seen across all time points for all interventions. Significant reduction in CAMI scores were seen for the CEE intervention up to 3 months, suggesting that effects of the intervention were short-lived. Our findings highlight the need of implementing interventions to reduce the mental health stigma among Asian men.
Description
Keywords
Asian men , Canada , Mental illness , Stigma , Self stigma , Social stigma , Asian immigrants , Asian Canadians