Many people from the South-Asian community do not have English as their primary language. First-generation South-Asians have high rates of illiteracy, and health information may be better communicated by television and radio programmes in their native language. Health information in a variety of languages in written form is becoming more accessible, but is not useful for those who cannot access it because of literacy difficulties.
Recently an opportunity arose to discuss issues related to mental health on a local Asian radio station in Nottingham and an Asian channel on satellite television. I found it a valuable learning experience and was encouraged by the positive feedback from the public. Speaking in the Kashmiri language to a predominantly Pakistani audience allowed participation of members of our communities who are often reluctant or unable to share their views and concerns on mental health matters.
I would encourage my psychiatry colleagues to take any opportunities that may arise to utilise their language skills in the mental health education of the general public using the local, national or even international media.
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