Today we shed more light on a highly important and underrated topic in the desi community: depression and mental illness. Our guest: 32 year old Israa Nasir from New York City. Israa has worked directly with patients in a mental health clinic, and now works within health tech to make an impact in the world of healthcare.  

Timeline of Discussion:

• 0:49 - Introduction
• 7:43 - Israa discusses her mental health background
• 10:39 - Israa talks about the mental health clinic where she worked, and adds a desi context.
• 17:04 - Israa discusses some common barriers or reasons why there is reluctance in the desi community to seek help for mental illnesses.
• 19:46 - Does 'imaan' or faith have to do with mental illness?
• 24:42 - Common desi misconceptions of mental illness
• 33:50 - How does speaking to a counselor actually help with mental illness?
• 36:52 - Israa's final note about depression & mental illness and what to do if you or your family member may be affected