Journey to the Centre of the Self

This book explores the lived experiences of South Asian psychiatrists in the UK through reflective accounts. Discussion covers the negotiation of distinctive cultural identities in their bearing on belonging, identity and marginalisation. It will appeal to readers interested in the unique insights into mental health that these psychiatrists bring.

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This book presents previously untold narratives of South Asian psychiatrists in the UK and provides insight into the significance of cultural identity, migration and marginalisation on their lives and work. The development of cultural psychiatry arose to meet the needs of multiethnic populations. A hitherto overlooked area in the field is the impact of white privilege on psychiatrists from ethnic minority backgrounds. Through the lived experience of South Asian psychiatrists, this pioneering book delves into the effects of structural inequality, the culturally specific needs of South Asian populations, and the impact of migration across generations. Personal accounts impart the importance of recognising the cultural hybridity of ethnic identities and how to work within cultural frameworks. Set in the UK context, findings can be applied more widely to other diaspora settings and are critical in understanding contemporary insights into cultural psychiatry and diverse cultural environments.