Background: 1 in 8 adults receive a diagnosis of depression. Research has examined South Asian experiences of depression; however, by banding together the different South Asian ethnic sub-groups, research has failed to take into account different religious beliefs, language, cultural and economic diversity, migration narratives, political contexts, and socio-economic circumstances across the diaspora and how this influences depression. Exploring specific cultures within the broad term ‘South Asian’ is important to ensure that service providers validate and understand cultural differences to provide appropriate care and treatment. Importantly, there is limited research on Punjabi Sikh experiences of depression.
Methodology: This study used individual semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences that led British Punjabi Sikhs to seek a diagnosis of depression from the primary care service. Interviews were conducted to identify the journey participants experienced during this time. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Findings: Three themes were drawn from the data, highlighting how cultural stigma, language barriers, and emotional struggles, such as shame and anger, delay British Punjabi Sikhs from recognising and seeking help for depression. Fear of judgment and a lack of culturally sensitive resources often lead to silence and hesitation in sharing diagnoses. Coping strategies like substance use and anger frequently mask depression, complicating access to support. Participants described a gradual, internal build-up of distress, with cultural and familial barriers deepening feelings of shame and identity conflict after diagnosis.
Discussion: This study highlights the importance of professionals holding in mind cultural humility and collaborating proactively with communities to improve mental health literacy. Services should be co-developed with individuals with lived experience to ensure relevance and accessibility.