Prevalence and predictors of mental health stigma among Greek and Greek-Cypriots residing in the United Kingdom

Background Mental health stigma represents a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly within collectivist cultures such as Greek and Greek-Cypriot communities, often tied to concepts of family honour and social standing. This study examined the prevalence and predictors of mental health stigma among Greek and Greek-Cypriot adults in the United Kingdom, focusing on stigma levels, associations with personal and indirect mental health experiences, therapy engagement, perceived cultural importance of therapist alignment, and self-advocacy. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 162 participants. Mental health stigma was measured using the Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale. Statistical analyses included univariate tests and a Generalised Linear Model; qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. Results Results indicated moderate to low overall stigma. Univariate analyses revealed significantly lower stigma among individuals with personal mental health experience, knowledge of someone with mental health issues, prior therapy engagement, perceived cultural importance of therapist alignment, and self-advocacy behaviours. Multivariate analysis identified personal experience of mental illness and valuing culturally congruent therapists as independent predictors of lower stigma. Qualitative findings highlighted participants' perceptions of mental health, approaches to supporting others, and sources of mental health knowledge. Conclusion The study concludes that personal experience with mental health issues and the perceived cultural congruence of therapeutic support are crucial factors associated with reduced mental health stigma within this population. Findings underscore the potential value of culturally tailored interventions and services aimed at promoting openness, enhancing help-seeking, and further reducing stigma in Greek and Greek-Cypriot communities.