The Filipino diasporic community is impacted by a history of colonization, migration, intergenerational trauma, and subsequent unaddressed mental health needs. This study was conducted to understand whether members of the Filipino diaspora in the United States perceive mental health to be adequately addressed in their families and communities; to describe perceived barriers to help-seeking in diasporic Filipino communities; and to identify approaches to outreach, engagement, and mental health service provision that are respectful of Filipino culture and beliefs. Sixteen qualitative interviews were conducted from January to May 2021 with members of the Filipino diasporic communities in Hawai’i and the San Francisco Bay Area. Study participants discuss barriers to and strategies for improving mental health care; assess which communication styles foster engagement among Filipinos across generations; and identify how to create institutional changes that are best suited to meet the needs of the Filipino community.
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