Abstract
Information pertaining to mental health needs of Southeast Asians residing in the United States is limited but growing. There is still very limited literature on the Iu-Mien, and little to none is known about them in this country. In many mental health studies, there is a tendency of grouping all persons of Asian descent together and, therefore, the empirical literature does not sufficiently address the mental health needs in specific subgroups. This research project focused on the current knowledge the Iu-Mien possess about mental illness and the factors causing underutilization. Despite evidence of mental health needs for Iu-Mien people, most do not present for mental health services. Finding from the study revealed that there is still inadequate knowledge and perceptions of mental illness within the Iu-Mien community and there are not sufficient Iu-Mien language interpreters to meet the needs of the Iu-Mien people.