Embracing Mental Health: How Younger Generations of Armenians Are Breaking the Stigma

By Janet Bayramyan, LCSW, from Road to Wellness Therapy

Mental health is often a taboo subject in many cultures. Armenia is no exception.

As Armenian Genocide Rememberance Day approaches on April 24, it is important to discuss how our community is overcoming mental health stigmas. Traditional Armenian values emphasize resilience, family honor, and perseverance in the face of adversity, often discouraging open discussions about psychological struggles.

As a proud Armenian, I am hopeful that my contribution as a therapist and also someone who openly shares about her own struggles is helping tear down the stigmas and help the community realize it’s okay to talk about it.

In recent years, younger generations of Armenians are increasingly embracing mental health support. This shift is driven by growing awareness of intergenerational trauma, increased access to mental health resources, and the influence of social media.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

One of the most significant barriers to mental health care in Armenian communities has been the stigma.

Older generations often associate therapy with severe mental illness rather than viewing it as a tool for emotional well-being, believing that if you expose mental health struggles it would dishonor the family name. Many discouraged seeking outside support and believed personal struggles should be kept within the family. We are seeing younger Armenians challenging these beliefs by openly discussing mental health, normalizing therapy, and advocating for emotional well-being.

As awareness grows, more people recognize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but an act of self-care.

The Impact of Intergenerational Trauma

Another critical factor in this cultural shift is the recognition of intergenerational trauma.

The Armenian Genocide of 1915, decades of political instability, and the ongoing conflict and 2020 war in Artsakh have left lasting scars on Armenian families. Many young Armenians have come to understand that the trauma experienced by their ancestors has been passed down in the form of anxiety, depression, and emotional repression. This realization has led to a surge in interest in trauma-informed therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), all of which help individuals process inherited pain.

Increased Access to Mental Health Resources

Improved access to mental health support has also played a crucial role in this shift. In Armenia and Armenian communities, organizations and mental health professionals are working to provide affordable therapy, crisis hotlines, and community support programs. Many therapists are now trained in culturally competent care, ensuring that Armenian-specific struggles are acknowledged and addressed.

Additionally, members of the Armenian diaspora—particularly in the United States, Canada, and France—are helping bridge the gap by sharing knowledge, funding mental health initiatives, and encouraging discussions within their communities.

The Role of Social Media

Social media has been instrumental in changing attitudes toward mental health among young Armenians. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube provide access to therapists, mental health educators, and peer support networks. Influencers and activists within the Armenian community use these platforms to normalize therapy, discuss self-care strategies, and share personal experiences. Moreover, exposure to global mental health conversations has allowed younger generations to adopt healthier coping mechanisms and challenge outdated beliefs.

Shifting Gender Norms and Emotional Expression

Another notable change is the evolving perception of masculinity. Traditionally, Armenian men have been expected to be stoic and emotionally reserved. However, younger men are beginning to reject these restrictive norms, embracing vulnerability and seeking support when needed. This shift is fostering healthier relationships, reducing rates of untreated mental health conditions, and encouraging open communication within families.

We still have a long way to go, but we are moving in a more positive direction. It’s also beautiful to see younger Armenian mothers encouraging their young boys to be more vulnerable and show that it is absolutely ok to show emotion and go to therapy.

The Future of Armenian Mental Health

The increasing acceptance of mental health support among younger Armenians marks a significant cultural transformation. By breaking long-standing stigmas, addressing intergenerational trauma, utilizing accessible resources, and leveraging social media, Armenian youth are fostering a more open and supportive environment for mental well-being. This shift not only benefits individuals but also strengthens families and communities, paving the way for a healthier future.

About Janet

Janet Bayramyan is an Armenian, Russian American individual who grew up in Los Angeles, California, with strong roots to her Armenian heritage. Janet is a licensed clinical social worker with a passion of helping individuals work through their past trauma and reducing the stigma of mental health in different cultures through her practice. “It is always an honor when an Armenian individual seeks out therapy,” Janet says. “I know how hard it can be to admit to asking for help, so when individuals take that step it is a true honor to support.”