Representative Image / AI Generated

A comprehensive multi-author research study has uncovered the complex web of stressors affecting South Asians in the United States, revealing that mental and physical health challenges stem from an intersection of workplace pressures, immigration, family expectations, language barriers, religion, and gender.

One in five South Asians is facing the burden of mental stress, and it’s a complex web of factors: An interaction of acculturation pressures, language barriers, immigration challenges, family expectations, discrimination and intergenerational conflict drives stress among South Asians in America.

The study, based on 271 South Asian adults, shows that these stressors rarely occur in isolation. Instead, they reinforce one another, making it harder for many immigrants and their families to maintain mental well-being while adapting to life in America.

Also Read: RANA organizes wellness and healthy aging retreat in NY

According to the research, the first-generation immigrants often struggle with communication barriers that can lead to social isolation and psychological distress, while second-generation South Asians frequently face the emotional strain of balancing two cultures. “South Asian women remain particularly vulnerable because of patriarchal social structures, gender-based expectations, and, in some cases, exposure to violence. Among all the stressors identified, intergenerational conflict emerged as one of the most significant,’’ the study noted. 

The consequences extend well beyond emotional well-being, with chronic stress linked to depression, anxiety, insomnia, self-harm, cardiovascular disease, and the physical manifestation of psychological distress.

While earlier studies connected stress levels with factors such as income, gender, and marital status, the new research expands that understanding by showing how financial strain, caregiving responsibilities, and the availability of social support also play a critical role in shaping stress experiences among South Asians, says the study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.  

Researchers found that demanding careers, financial pressures, and the struggle to balance professional ambitions with traditional family responsibilities remain among the strongest contributors to stress. First-generation immigrants frequently encounter language barriers and social isolation, while younger South Asians often face the challenge of balancing family traditions with American culture.

Led by Dr. Manoj Sharma and an international team of co-authors, the published research offers fresh insights into one of America's fastest-growing immigrant communities and calls for culturally informed interventions that strengthen emotional resilience, community engagement, and overall well-being. 

Besides Dr. Sharma,  the authors, Asma Awan, Vikash Patel, Badrunnisa Hanif, Aastha Poudel, Tooba Laeeq, and Sandhya Wahi-Gururaj, all South Asians in the United States, note that chronic stress affects both mental and physical health, increasing the likelihood of anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes.
Talking to this reporter, Sharma said, “The South Asian community is considered a model minority, but that is not true. Hence, tailored interventions are needed for this community to build mental health.”

The study also highlights how gender shapes stress differently. Women frequently manage careers alongside caregiving and family expectations, while men often experience stress associated with employment uncertainty, finances, and reluctance to seek mental health care because of stigma. Religious practices can provide emotional strength, but expectations tied to religious and cultural identity may also contribute to pressure in some families.

Among the most encouraging findings, the researchers identified practical solutions that help people successfully adopt long-term stress-management habits. Individuals who built confidence in their ability to relax, had supportive families and communities, and learned emotional self-regulation were significantly more likely to maintain healthy coping behaviors. Sharma said, “Positive social support is a great buffer to counteract stress, and that is lacking for first-generation immigrants. So, there is an ardent need to build this through extra efforts emanating from the community.”

Meditation, yoga, prayer, gratitude practices, and strong social support emerged as some of the most effective culturally accepted approaches. The researchers argue that healthcare providers, employers, and policymakers should expand culturally sensitive mental health services, reduce stigma surrounding counseling, and create supportive workplace environments.

Sharma said, “There is a dearth of specific mental health interventions geared toward the South Asian community, which are very much needed.”

The study uses the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of health behavior change only as the behavioral framework for understanding how people initiate and sustain healthy relaxation practices. However, its central message extends beyond theory: public health programs must recognize the intersectionality of work stress, language, immigration, religion, gender, and family life if they are to improve outcomes for South Asians. 

 

FACT CHECK

• Survey of 271 South Asian adults in the United States.

• Workplace stress, immigration, language barriers, family expectations, gender roles, and religious identity often overlap.

• Chronic stress raises risks for anxiety, depression, hypertension, and diabetes.

• Community support, meditation, yoga, prayer, and culturally tailored mental health interventions improve resilience.

Discover more at New India Abroad.