Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
8.5
Journals
IJERPH
Special Issues
Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery
ijerph-logo
Submit to IJERPH Review for IJERPH Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Care Sciences".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2025) | Viewed by 22425

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Yasuhiro Kotera

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
Interests: mental health; cross-culture; personal recovery; self-compassion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Jessica Jackson

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
Interests: early intervention for health and the timely identification and provision of support, services, or treatment; climate change and children’s well-being
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Gülcan Garip

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
Interests: digital behaviour change interventions for the self-management of health and illness; sexual health; online learning; health and wellbeing; workplace wellbeing
Dr. Ann Kirkman

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
Interests: mental health; cross-culture; workplace mental health; education mental health; student mental health; positive psychology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Pilar Martin

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychiatry and Social Psychology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
Interests: mental health; suicide prevention; family relations; resilience, and publicity and public relations

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues, 

Mental health personal recovery is commonly defined as the unique, personal process by which people with mental health problems regain control over their lives, and build a meaningful and satisfying life despite their condition. This is different from clinical recovery, where someone recovers from the mental health problems, experiencing none or fewer of those. Care is needed for personal recovery and clinical recovery for people with mental health problems to live a meaningful and satisfying life. However, historically and in many countries, clinical recovery has been emphasised more than personal recovery. This Special Issue focuses on personal recovery. 

Personal recovery has been receiving global attention, and has begun to be incorporated in the policies of many countries around the world across cultures. However, how personal recovery is understood differently and practiced differently across cultures remains under-explored. This Special Issue focuses on cross-cultural views on personal recovery.

We welcome studies from any part of the world, but especially those from non-WEIRD (Western, educated, industrialised, rich and democratic) countries are welcome to report what has been under-reported. 

Dr. Yasuhiro Kotera
Dr. Jessica Jackson
Dr. Gülcan Garip
Dr. Ann Kirkman
Dr. Pilar Martin
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • mental health personal recovery
  • recovery-oriented approach
  • cross-cultural views
  • global mental health
  • quality of life
  • meaning in life

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

15 pages, 988 KB  
Article
Validating the Nepalese Short Attitudes Toward Mental Health Problems Scale (N-SATMHPS): A Culturally Sensitive Tool for Assessing Mental Health Stigma
by Dev Bandhu Poudel, Takashi Yoshioka, Rory Colman and Yasuhiro Kotera
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(12), 1884; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22121884 - 18 Dec 2025
Viewed by 1938
Abstract
(1) Background: Negative attitudes toward mental health problems remain a barrier for help-seeking, especially in collectivist, lower-middle-income countries like Nepal. While the Attitudes Towards Mental Health Problems Scale (ATMHPS) has been used globally, it has not been formally validated for Nepalese populations. This [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Negative attitudes toward mental health problems remain a barrier for help-seeking, especially in collectivist, lower-middle-income countries like Nepal. While the Attitudes Towards Mental Health Problems Scale (ATMHPS) has been used globally, it has not been formally validated for Nepalese populations. This study aimed to culturally adapt and psychometrically validate a concise Nepalese version of the scale. (2) Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study and recruited participants through an opportunity sampling method. We developed the Nepalese Short Version of the Attitudes Towards Mental Health Problems Scale (N-SATMHPS) using Dataset 1 (n = 384) and validated it with Dataset 2 (n = 803). Items were selected based on internal consistency indices. Fourteen items showing the strongest reliability were retained from the original seven subscales. A confirmatory factor analysis and internal consistency testing were used to assess psychometric properties. (3) Results: The N-SATMHPS showed a strong internal consistency (α = 0.74–0.92) and excellent model fit (χ2/df = 1.92, CFI = 0.982, TLI = 0.970, RMSEA = 0.049, SRMR = 0.026). Correlations with the full version ranged from r = 0.79 to 0.96. Discriminant validity with Mental Health Literacy Questionnaire—Young Adults (MHLQ-YA) showed weak but significant correlations, confirming construct distinction. (4) Conclusions: The scale captured key Nepalese cultural constructs, such as shame and family honor. It also aligned with collectivist cultural expectations. The N-SATMHPS demonstrates strong psychometric performance and cultural relevance. It is suitable for research and intervention work aimed at reducing stigma and improving mental health in Nepal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure A1

17 pages, 286 KB  
Article
Factors Influencing Online Mental Health Forum Use for People from Ethnic Minority Backgrounds in the United Kingdom: A Mixed Methods Study
by Connor Heapy, Paul Marshall, Zoe Glossop, Suman Prinjha and Fiona Lobban
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111638 - 28 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1134
Abstract
Background: Ethnic minority groups are under-represented in their use of community mental health services in the UK. Online mental health forums could be a more appealing support option than traditional mental health services. Part one of this study investigated the level of online [...] Read more.
Background: Ethnic minority groups are under-represented in their use of community mental health services in the UK. Online mental health forums could be a more appealing support option than traditional mental health services. Part one of this study investigated the level of online forum use in people from ethnic minority groups. Part two investigated the factors influencing online mental health forum use for people from ethnic minority groups. Methods: Part one involved comparing data from a range of pre-existing national datasets, and datasets local to Berkshire, UK (i.e., on the general population, people experiencing common mental health problems, users of mental health forums, and NHS Talking Therapies services). Part two involved interviewing 14 individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds who had used, or considered using, online mental health forums. Results: In part one, nationally, Asian, Black, and Mixed ethnic groups appeared over-represented in their online mental health forum use based on their reporting of common mental health problems. In Berkshire, people from Asian and Black ethnic groups were under-represented in their use of Berkshire NHS Trust’s online mental health forum based on their representation in the Berkshire population. In Part Two, three themes were identified as influencing forum use: (1) sense of community in the online and offline worlds, (2) trust is crucial, and (3) barriers to accessing online forums. Conclusion: People from ethnic minority groups vary in their use and experiences of mental health forums. Whilst forums can offer a valued accessible space for anonymous sharing of often stigmatised experiences, pathways to access require trusted figures to promote their availability, and forum designers and moderators to co-create culturally sensitive spaces with people from these target communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery)
15 pages, 250 KB  
Article
Undocumented Migrants’ Experiences of a Recovery-Oriented Group Intervention and Its Impact on Their Mental Well-Being: A Qualitative Study
by Zoë Nieuwhof, Maaike Kooiman, Willem F. Scholte, Marianne Reddingius and Martha Teijema
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(11), 1617; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22111617 - 23 Oct 2025
Viewed by 1162
Abstract
The Method for the Empowerment of Trauma Survivors (METS) is a recovery-oriented group intervention tailored to refugees and asylum seekers who experienced traumatic events. This study explores how undocumented migrants in the Netherlands experience participation in METS, how these experiences relate to changes [...] Read more.
The Method for the Empowerment of Trauma Survivors (METS) is a recovery-oriented group intervention tailored to refugees and asylum seekers who experienced traumatic events. This study explores how undocumented migrants in the Netherlands experience participation in METS, how these experiences relate to changes in their mental well-being, and which aspects of the intervention participants find most valuable. A qualitative case study was conducted involving in-depth, individual interviews with undocumented migrants who participated in METS. Interviews focused on participants’ experiences with the intervention and perceived changes in mental well-being. Five main themes emerged: connectedness, group dynamics, personal development, emotional well-being, and practical aspects. Changes in mental well-being were often subtle, difficult to articulate, and in some cases temporary. While some participants reported positive developments, many continued to face significant challenges and did not experience notable improvement. No participants reported negative outcomes as a result of participation. METS appears suitable for a heterogeneous population with diverse cultural, religious, and educational backgrounds. Reported benefits often related to group participation rather than METS-specific characteristics. Future research is warranted to further explore whether METS is a valuable addition to existing transdiagnostic psychosocial group interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

19 pages, 878 KB  
Review
Exploring the Efficacy of Aboriginal Men’s Socioemotional Healing Programs in Australia: A Scoping Review of Evaluated Programs
by Elizabeth Horak and Sandra C. Thompson
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22010088 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2866
Abstract
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter, respectfully, Indigenous) men’s health and social indicators reflect an ongoing legacy of social disruption with profound implications for broader family and community contexts. In response to recognized needs, healing programs have been implemented within Australia. The literature [...] Read more.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter, respectfully, Indigenous) men’s health and social indicators reflect an ongoing legacy of social disruption with profound implications for broader family and community contexts. In response to recognized needs, healing programs have been implemented within Australia. The literature on relevant best practices for Indigenous men’s healing was explored to inform the planning and implementation of a local program. A scoping review of electronic databases was undertaken to retrieve information between 2012 and 2022 on social and emotional healing programs for Indigenous men that included a program evaluation. Of the 2123 identified articles, many lacked a program evaluation or were not specific to male participants, with nine meeting the inclusion criteria for the review. Six central elements that supported the programs’ reported efficacy were identified: kinship, cultural understanding, a view of healing as being holistic, a strengths-based approach, a male leadership team, and a consistent meeting space. These elements were important for the social and emotional healing of the Indigenous male participants. Based on these findings, there is an increased need for the identified elements to be incorporated into programs for Indigenous men to accompany ongoing efforts in improving the wellbeing of the Indigenous population overall. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

21 pages, 849 KB  
Systematic Review
The Cross-Cultural Validation of Neuropsychological Assessments and Their Clinical Applications in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Scoping Analysis
by Evgenia Gkintoni and Georgios Nikolaou
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(8), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21081110 - 22 Aug 2024
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 13987
Abstract
Objective: The present study explores the cross-cultural validation of neuropsychological assessments and their clinical applications in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing on culturally adapted CBT (CA-CBT) across diverse populations and settings. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in multiple [...] Read more.
Objective: The present study explores the cross-cultural validation of neuropsychological assessments and their clinical applications in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing on culturally adapted CBT (CA-CBT) across diverse populations and settings. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in multiple academic databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords related to cognitive behavioral therapy, cultural adaptation, and specific populations were used. The inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and pilot studies that assessed CA-CBT for various mental health conditions. Results: The review included studies involving Chinese Americans, Latino caregivers, Syrian refugees, Jordanian children, Malaysian Muslims, Afghan refugees, Iraqi women, Japanese children and adolescents, and Tanzanian and Kenyan children. CA-CBT demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and psychosis. For instance, research has shown that CA-CBT is more effective than standard CBT in reducing depressive symptoms among Chinese Americans and in significantly lowering PTSD symptoms in Syrian refugee women. This method has been well-received and is feasible for use in diverse populations, such as Jordanian children and Afghan refugees. The long-term benefits are promising, with sustained improvements being reported in various studies. Additionally, digital and remote delivery methods have demonstrated potential for expanding the accessibility of CA-CBT. Conclusions: CA-CBT is a valuable and effective intervention for diverse cultural populations, significantly improving mental health outcomes. However, future research must address limitations such as small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, and variability in assessment tools. Future studies should include larger and more diverse sample sizes, longer follow-up periods, rigorous control groups, and comprehensive outcome measures to further validate and enhance the application of CA-CBT across different cultural contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health Personal Recovery)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop