Mory Kakar
About
My research project
Exploring the Lived Experiences of South Asian Individuals in London with Co-Occurring Diabetes and Depression: A Study of Cultural Stigma and Mental HealthMy research project will explore the lived experiences of South Asian individuals in London who have co-occurring diabetes and depression, focusing on the intersection of cultural stigma and mental health. Using a qualitative approach, the study will employ semi-structured interviews to understand how cultural beliefs, societal expectations, and personal experiences shape their perceptions of both conditions. Given the high prevalence of diabetes within South Asian communities and the potential impact of mental health stigma on help-seeking behaviours, this research aims to provide valuable insights into the barriers individuals face in managing their health. The findings could inform culturally sensitive interventions and support services tailored to the needs of South Asian populations in the UK.
Supervisors
My research project will explore the lived experiences of South Asian individuals in London who have co-occurring diabetes and depression, focusing on the intersection of cultural stigma and mental health. Using a qualitative approach, the study will employ semi-structured interviews to understand how cultural beliefs, societal expectations, and personal experiences shape their perceptions of both conditions. Given the high prevalence of diabetes within South Asian communities and the potential impact of mental health stigma on help-seeking behaviours, this research aims to provide valuable insights into the barriers individuals face in managing their health. The findings could inform culturally sensitive interventions and support services tailored to the needs of South Asian populations in the UK.
My qualifications
Grade: 1st Class Honours
Publications
This paper offers a critical analysis of the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) model by drawing on both clinical and lived experience. It highlights the programme’s key strengths, including reduced waiting times, broad geographic coverage, routine outcome monitoring, and a strong emphasis on cognitive behavioural therapy. These features have contributed to the model’s widespread adoption and have improved access to psychological support across the UK. In addition, IAPT’s patient-centred ethos promotes flexibility and service user empowerment through collaborative goal setting, varied delivery formats, and responsiveness to client preferences. However, the paper also identifies significant limitations. Regional disparities, a narrow range of therapy options, rigid session structures, high service demand, and clinician burnout present ongoing challenges. These issues are further compounded by systemic constraints, including funding shortfalls and workforce pressures, which threaten service consistency and sustainability. The paper argues that while routine monitoring improves accountability and clinical outcomes, it may also contribute to administrative burdens and increase pressure on both practitioners and clients. The analysis draws on practitioner accounts and service user feedback to explore these dynamics in depth. It advocates for targeted reforms, including increased funding, the introduction of more diverse and culturally sensitive therapies, and flexible treatment frameworks tailored to client complexity. Recommendations also include workforce support strategies such as protected supervision time and professional development opportunities to mitigate burnout and promote staff retention. The paper concludes by calling for a more adaptive and inclusive model of care that remains true to IAPT’s foundational aims while addressing the realities of rising demand and diverse service user needs. Ensuring equitable access to high-quality mental health support requires not only system-level changes but also a commitment to ongoing research and user-led innovation.