Muslim considerations in seeking mental health help in California and Israel: a qualitative approach

• DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-22224-2
• Publication Date: 2025-03-20T18:28:34Z
• Authors: Leena Badran; Niveen Rizkalla; Steven P. Segal
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Biostatistics; Stigma; Help Seeking; Social stigma

Abstract Background Existing evidence indicates that Muslim minorities underutilize mental health services despite a pressing need. Employing the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study seeks to explore considerations influence help-seeking by Muslims residing in California and Israel. Methods A qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews guided TPB principles was implemented with 78 participants. Thematic analysis conducted identify key themes. Results both deductive inductive approaches, four major themes were identified: attitudes (advantages, disadvantages, religiosity), subjective norms (the impact significant others), perceived behavioral control (facilitators challenges), intentions toward seeking support (influenced gender, prior experience). Common social cultural identified groups within patterns TPB. The family's significance as supportive resource emerged groups, but extended family had more profound among Stigma barrier against help stronger Israel, while financial barriers socio-political context highlighted Californian Muslims. Conclusions findings importance adopting holistic due commonalities irrespective geographical differences. Variance between two primarily stemmed from factors, particularly stigma family. results underscore universality common aspects emphasize addressing socio-economic realities enhance engagement countries.