Feeling stuck in a language can be frustrating. One participant in a study said, “It’s like there’s a plug when I speak English. I can’t fully open up.” This reflects a deeper issue for many who speak multiple languages, especially regarding mental health.
Recent research reveals that language significantly impacts how we experience emotions, particularly for bilingual individuals. A study in Clinical Psychological Science focused on Japanese-English bilinguals over 40 living in the U.S. Participants reported more anxiety when they answered questions in Japanese compared to English. This difference was linked to cultural attitudes and word meanings in each language (Williams et al., 2025).
Viorica Marian, a communication professor at Northwestern University, emphasizes that language and culture are tightly connected. She explains that different cultures frame emotions differently. For instance, English tends to focus on individual feelings, which can change how someone evaluates their mental state.
In contrast, Japanese culture often carries stigma around mental health. Aya Inamori Williams, a clinical psychologist, notes that people may avoid expressing feelings like sadness or shame, which makes discussions about mental health more challenging.
Bilingual people often process emotions differently based on the language they use. Marian points out that switching languages can offer new perspectives, helping individuals work through their emotions more effectively.
Participants in the study shared their struggles. One expressed concerns about communicating their feelings accurately in English, despite being fluent. Many worry about whether therapists can truly understand their emotions.
To improve mental health care for bilingual individuals, the researchers recommend providing resources in multiple languages and encouraging clients to switch languages during sessions. They also suggest exploring technology for real-time translation to help bridge communication gaps.
Marian acknowledges that we lack long-term data on the effectiveness of these practices. However, understanding how language affects mental health is vital for developing better support systems. “We want to start a conversation about bilingual mental health,” she says. This dialogue is essential for helping clinicians create more tailored and effective mental health interventions.
In summary, language isn’t just a communication tool; it shapes our thoughts and emotions. Recognizing this can lead to better mental health care for those navigating multiple languages and cultures.
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Newswise, Language;Bi Lingual;Mental Health, Association for Psychological Science
