Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores various psychiatric syndromes unique to different cultures, highlighting how cultural beliefs shape perceptions of mental health. He discusses the stigma surrounding mental illness in Asian communities, the concept of ‘running amok’ in Malaysia, and the impact of cultural practices on mental health. Through examples like Williams Syndrome in Japan and ghost sickness among Native American tribes, DeMille emphasizes the importance of understanding these cultural contexts to better address mental health issues. The conversation also touches on the need for empathy and awareness in a rapidly globalizing world.