Project Bhalakushari

Bhalakushari is a research project between Lehigh University and the Bhutanese Community in Harrisburg to better understand and support the mental well-being of older Bhutanese communities in the U.S.

Our Study Goals

Listen to stories of support

We want to hear how Bhutanese community members aged 50 and older find social support through friends, family, and community—and how that support affects their mental well-being.

Understand long-term challenges and strengths

Over the next three years, we will track how life before and after moving to the U.S. has shaped the mental health of Bhutanese individuals aged 50 and older.

Learn from Caregivers

We will listen to community members who are caring for adults aged 50 and older and study how caregiving affects both their mental health and the well-being of those they care for.

Our mission is to empower the Nepali-speaking Bhutanese Community in Central Pennsylvania by addressing the health, socioeconomic, and cultural challenges they face.