Cultural Awareness
Health Beliefs and Practices in the Vietnamese culture
Mystical beliefs explain physical and mental illness. Health is viewed as the result of a harmonious balance between the poles of hot and cold that govern bodily functions. Vietnamese don’t readily accept Western mental health counseling and interventions, particularly when self-disclosure is expected this is because the behavior of the individual reflects on the family. Mental illness or any behavior that indicates lack of self control may produce shame and guilt therefore patients from this culture may be reluctant to discuss symtomps of mental health or depression. Many will smile easily and often, regardless of the underlying emotion, so a smile cannot automatically be interpreted as happiness or agreement. Vietnamese often laugh in situations that other cultures may find inappropriate. The extended family has significant influence, and the oldest male in the family is often the decision maker and spokesperson. Older family members are respected, and their authority is often unquestioned. Maintaining harmony is an important due to respect for authority, disagreement with the recommendations of health care professionals is avoided. However, lack of disagreement does not indicate that the patient and family agree with or will follow treatment recommendations.
When communicating the family head is always greeted first . To address people formally, use Mr. or Ms. or a title plus the first name. A slight bow is appropriate. To summon a person, the entire hand with the fingers facing down is the only appropriate hand signal. Speaking in a loud tone with excessive gestures is considered rude, especially when done by women.

Health Beliefs and Practices in the Iraqi culture
Most of the beliefs in Iraqi culture that influence health practices come from their religion. Dietary