Postdoc Fellow
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities
African Immigrants’ Perspectives on Mental Health and Mental Health Service Utilization: A Mixed Method DesignAfrican immigrant population is fast growing in the United States, yet there is a dearth of research on their mental health. This study aims to explore African immigrants' perspectives on mental health and their mental health service utilization using a mixed-method research design.
A total of 100 participants residing in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metropolitan Statistical Area will be recruited. The mixed method allows for combining qualitative and quantitative research elements, such as data collection, analysis, and inferences, to gain a broad and in-depth understanding of African immigrants’ views on mental health and its service use. The analysis will assess participants’ (1) understanding of mental health, (2) knowledge of early warning signs and symptoms of mental health problems, and (3) access to and utilization of mental health services.
The findings may help to bridge the gap in the literature on African immigrant perspectives on and understanding of mental health and its service access and utilization. This pilot study will provide a foundation for my research career in mental health disparities among African immigrants, especially sexual and gender minority immigrants.
The long-term goal of this study is to provide large, nationally representative cross-sectional and longitudinal data on African immigrants while supporting intervention efforts in reducing mental health disparities in this population.
