Invisible Distress: Understanding the Cultural and Structural Barriers Shaping Alcohol Use and Help-Seeking Among Punjabi-Sikh Men in Canada
Invisible Distress: Understanding the Cultural and Structural Barriers Shaping Alcohol Use and Help-Seeking Among Punjabi-Sikh Men in Canada
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Issue Date
2025-12
Authors
Brar, Rohan
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Abstract
Drinking rarely exists in isolation, as sociocultural norms around alcohol often shape how it is experienced, discussed, and understood across different communities and cultural contexts. Cultural identity and stigma collectively form barriers that limit both Punjabi-Sikh men and the effectiveness of support services. Although harmful drinking is a global concern, culture and religion intensify the challenges Punjabi-Sikh men face when trying to manage alcohol. Sikhism prohibits drinking as a moral and spiritual sin, yet it is frequently normalized in Punjabi-Sikh social gatherings. The cultural-religious contradictions are notably evident in Western contexts such as Canada, where diaspora communities commonly associate drinking with a sense of collective identity and celebration. Personal beliefs can begin to conflict with external expectations, and abstinence or autonomy may be seen as defiance. As a result, cultural norms contribute to higher rates of drinking as Punjabi-Sikh men navigate a cycle perpetuated by loyalty, respect, and honour. Research involving South Asian adults in Canada remains limited, and the unique realities of subgroups such as Punjabi-Sikh men are neglected. The lack of depth and specificity in the literature is reflected by support services that predominantly centre around Western psychological paradigms. Common interventions often overlook the cultural beliefs of Punjabi-Sikh men that shape views on health and wellness. Therefore, support services can reduce accessibility barriers by considering how religious expectations, cultural identity, and familial responsibilities coincide. Focusing on the voices and lived experiences of Punjabi-Sikh men may increase the effectiveness of interventions, as unique sociocultural factors will likely provide context for the barriers that perpetuate alcohol use and limit help-seeking.
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Keywords
Punjabi-Sikh men , alcohol use , identity conflict , help-seeking , cultural stigma , critical humanism
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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States , openAccess