An exploration of ‘Alcohol and Other Drugs and Mental Health’ counselling with migrant Iranian men in Australia

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between forced migration, mental health, and alcohol and other drug (AOD) use among Iranian migrant men in Australia, focusing on their help-seeking behaviours and the effectiveness of available mental health and addiction services. It also provides guidance for bilingual counsellors, particularly female practitioners, supporting this population.

The research used a two-phase qualitative design, grounded in social constructionist and feminist frameworks. Phase One involved 30 in-depth focus group interviews with Iranian migrant men who experienced AOD use and mental health issues, conducted at the Drug and Alcohol Multicultural Education Centre (DAMEC). Phase Two employed autoethnography, where the researcher—a bilingual Iranian migrant and female counsellor—reflected on her experiences in providing services, complemented by additional focus group data.

Key findings revealed how pre-migration trauma, detention, cultural dislocation, and post-migration challenges like racism and housing instability affect mental health and AOD use. Language barriers, stigma, and a lack of culturally competent services were significant obstacles to seeking help. The study also highlighted challenges faced by female counsellors in providing care to male clients. Participants expressed increased trust in female counsellors who could speak their language and address their broader needs, including housing and legal support. Group counselling, initially met with resistance, was found to be beneficial.

The findings fill a critical gap in understanding the experiences of Iranian migrant men with AOD and mental health issues, offering recommendations for policy and service improvements. It emphasizes the need for bilingual, culturally competent counsellors, particularly women, in Australia’s mental health and addiction services to foster engagement, reduce stigma, and improve care.