Asian Americans face stigma on mental health: Report

Chinese Americans are often reluctant to discuss their state of mental health because of social stigma, a community advocate has said.

"Mental illness is a taboo subject that Chinese Americans often avoid discussing," Elaine Peng, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association for Chinese Communities in the Bay Area, said. "Traditional Chinese culture views mental health problems as a source of shame and weakness, causing individuals and families to 'lose face' if acknowledged."

The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, and the rise in anti-Asian rhetoric and hate crimes deeply affected the safety and well-being of Asian Americans, particularly elders, Peng said.