CULTURAL BELIEFS AND PERCEPTIONS ON MENTAL HEALTH

The thesis examines the cultural beliefs and perceptions of mental health among first- and second-generation Ethiopian immigrants in Las Vegas, Nevada. The project investigates how mental health is perceived among the first- and second-generation Ethiopian immigrants and in what ways they cope with stress. A mixed methods design was employed in the study. 10 respondents from each generation participated in a free listing, and 8 from each generation participated in a semi-structured interview. This comparative study aims to understand generational differences in the stress experiences, perceived causes, and coping mechanisms of first- and second-generation migrants. Some of the major results of the study include: First, both generations experience stress, but with distinct primary stressors and coping strategies. First-generation immigrants typically report stress, primarily associated with structural and migration-related challenges, including financial instability, extended work hours, language barriers, limited social support, concerns regarding immigration status, difficulties in raising children within a new cultural context, and separation from family. Their predominant coping mechanisms involve religious and spiritual practices, with distress often regarded as an experience to be endured with resilience rather than as a mental health issue. Second-generation immigrants, by contrast, exhibit increased stress on certain measures, with prominent stressors including financial pressure, academic and family expectations, identity negotiation, microaggressions, and challenges related to belonging. This generation showed a tendency to combine cultural values with professional mental health support, acknowledging that psychological care can complement spiritual practices. Nevertheless, they frequently encounter tension with first-generation parents, who may associate therapy with severe mental illness. The research highlights the significant generational shifts in the understanding of mental health, its causes, and appropriate interventions within the Ethiopian immigrant community. This finding suggests the successful mental health intervention programs among immigrants is one that take into consideration not only cultural backgrounds but also generational differences.