How does "The pressure to appear strong" affect immigrant men’s mental health?

Dr. Naresh Sharma says social pressure to appear strong quietly harms migrant men’s mental health, and seeing emotional openness as weakness worsens issues and limits access to help.

Dr. Naresh Sharma says social pressure to appear strong quietly harms migrant men’s mental health, and seeing emotional openness as weakness worsens issues and limits access to help.

The constant social pressure on men in immigrant families to always appear strong often quietly affects their mental health. According to psychologist Dr. Naresh Sharma, viewing emotional openness as a weakness worsens problems and limits access to support. Learn more in this podcast.


Psychologist Dr Naresh Sharma notes that viewing emotional openness as weakness worsens issues and limits support. Many men also face the added burden of providing for both their local and overseas families.

Dr Sharma explains that carrying these responsibilities without sharing worries can lead to stress, loneliness, and emotional fatigue, with signs like irritability, sleep issues, or overworking. Emotional openness, honest conversation, self-care, community support, and professional counselling are key to building resilience and accessing help.

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Disclaimer: This information is for general mental and psychological health awareness only. For individual and specific advice, please consult a qualified professional.

Watch the full video interview on the SBS South Asian Urdu YouTube channel.

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If you or someone you know needs support for mental health or psychological concerns, help is available via the link/number below:

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Listen Wednesday or Friday program at this link
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