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Alcohol or drug problems may go undetected because Asian Americans are considered unlikely to have such problems and have traditionally been taught to be stoic and not attract attention (Bromley & Sip, 2001; Chin, 2001; Kitano, 1982; Matsuyoshi, 2001; Subramanian &Takeuchi, 1999). Treatment may therefore be delayed until problems become severe (Lai, 2001) or authorities intervene (Amodeo et al., 1996; Kwon-Ahn, 2001).
Few chemical dependency treatment programs have been designed for Asian Americans, thus treatment may lack appeal and relevance (D'Avanzo, 1997; Matsuyoshi, 2001; Phin & Phillips, 1981).
Those from countries where little professional care was available may be especially likely to use indigenous healing practices and helpers (Lai, 2001). They may need extra help to utilize treatment programs in the U.S. (Sanhu & Malik, 2001).
Suggestions to encourage and improve treatment include outreach, education, and bilingual services (Matsushima et al., 1981; Sandhu & Malik, 2001; Zane et al., 1998).
Traditional Asians may prefer indirect communication (Bromley & Sip, 2001; Chang, 2000; Matsuyoshi, 2001), though clear and direct advice (Kwon-Ahn, 2001) or authoritative solutions may also be sought (D'Avanzo, 1997; Sandhu & Malik, 2001).
For many Asians, the family, which often includs extended members, is paramount. Treatment providers may need to consider filial piety, deference to the father, and other traditional values when offering treatment (Chang, 2000). The traditional matrilineal family systems of Pacific Islander groups (e.g., Native Hawaiians and Samoans) should also be considered (Kuramoto & Nakashima, 2000).
Pharmacotherapy (medications) for substance use disorders may be acceptable (Chang, 2000; Lai, 2001; Matsuyoshi, 2001). It may also be useful to incorporate approaches the client already uses, such as meditation, acupuncture, or church or temple services (Amodeo et al., 1996; Bromley & Sip, 2001; D'Avanzo, 1997). |
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Prevention & Treatment