Humans are cultural beings. The first connections with culture are usually made within the family; they influence the way we see ourselves and what we think is important.

Your family and cultural background shape your attitudes about mental health and wellbeing: how you are taught to cope with problems and difficult situations, how you talk about them, who you talk about them too, and how you seek support. Your culture may also shape how you relax, practise self-care, and resolve conflicts.

If you live in a community that rejects aspects of your culture – such as identity, beliefs, or sexual orientation – it can have negative impacts on your wellbeing. If you live where the dominant culture is different from or lacks tolerance to your own cultural heritage, or you have parents from different cultural backgrounds, you may experience some conflict around your cultural identity.