Suggestions for Global Relations

If you are a mental health professional, work on forming a bond based on trust with the Russian client. It may take a while for them to open up, but slowly establishing confidence in one another will likely lead to better results.

Russians frequently drop out of treatment, partially due to the abusive overprescription of psychiatric drugs to political dissidents during the USSR era. Clinicians should emphasize patients creating mutually respectful social connections before immediately suggesting medical approaches to care.

Try not to misinterpret general states of unhappiness for depression. While Americans place a huge importance on feeling cheerful, Russians tend to view bouts of melancholy as ordinary parts of life.

Recognize that although Russians typically experience more negative than positive feelings, this may be due to a cultural value of welcoming the entire range of human emotions.

Do not use medication as the first form of treatment for a person from Russia diagnosed with depression. Oftentimes, Russians view depression as rooted in psychosocial stressors rather than biological causes.

Some Russians may feel an inclination to deal with depressive symptoms by themselves, as they might view therapy as weak. Instead of forcing them to see a counselor, try to reduce stigma by providing reassurance and acceptance.

Allow the Russians you know to self-reflect on adverse events. While most Americans may perceive this as ruminating, many Russians are able to evaluate their pasts without blaming themselves or experiencing distress.

Therapists treating Russian patients should offer tools to reconstruct negative incidents, as studies show an increased ability among Russians to self-distance from prior ordeals.

Obtain some basic knowledge on Russian culture, history, and literature. Consider historical factors as they relate to distrust of mental health services in Russia.

As a collectivists, Russians often use informal interpersonal networks to overcome psychological stressors. Referrals to cultural community or religious groups can be helpful.

Screen for alcohol dependence and post-traumatic stress disorder. These ailments are commonly comorbid with depression in Russia.

If needed, assess traditional practitioner-seeking (e.g., Babki), nonprescription medicine use, and herbal treatments.