Navigating Identity and Mental Health: A conversation with Niharika Hiremath

In this insightful episode, Niharika Hiremath OAM, a first-generation immigrant and mental health professional, joins the podcast to share her unique perspective on growing up in Australia after leaving India at a young age. Niharika discusses her lived experiences as a third culture kid, the challenges and conflicts of navigating multiple identities, and her openness about mental health struggles. She emphasizes the importance of cultural humility, self-awareness, and the intricate connection between identity and mental well-being. Niharika provides professional insights into intentional peer support and underscores the need for inclusive and culturally responsive mental health services in Australia. This episode is filled with valuable advice for both mental health professionals and individuals from multicultural backgrounds.Chapters:(00:00) Introduction to the Podcast(00:33) Meet Niharika Hiremath(01:26) Niharika’s Early Life in India(02:53) Migrating to New Zealand and Australia(04:46) Growing Up as a Third Culture Kid(06:34) Identity Conflicts and Emotional Expression(08:21) Sharing Mental Health Struggles(11:16) Intersectionality and Mental Health(18:36) Creating Inclusive Mental Health Services(25:20) Cultural Humility in Practice(30:15) Introduction to Intentional Peer Support (IPS)(34:07) Niharika’s Purpose and Advice to Migrants(46:09) Final Reflections and Recommendations---Thank you for listening to From There To Here!If our guest's story resonated with you, please like, follow and rate the podcast – that would make a massive difference to the production of the show.I was your host Emma Bellamy, and I can’t wait to bring you on another journey From There to Here!LinkedIn || Instagram || Spotify || Apple PodcastsThis podcast brought to you in partnership with Kintsugi Heroes. To find out more, head to kintsugiheroes.com.au.