Asian American and Pacific Islanders Mental Health Issues: A Historical Perspective

PURPOSE OF THE PAPER. The purpose of this paper is to provide a historical context of the growth and development of the Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) mental health movement vis a vis the National Institute of Mental Health. SUMMARY OF THE METHODS UTILIZED. The author conducted a review of relevant literature, published and unpublished, on salient and significant mental health activities and programs which had taken place during the period of 1971 to 1992. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS. AAPIs have made tremendous strides toward the development of mental health services, research and training. This is the result of AAPI professionals and community leaders banding together in vocalizing their concerns and pressuring the policy makers to recognize their needs. CONCLUSIONS. Much has been accomplished in the last twenty years, but a lot remains to be done as we face the challenges and opportunities that are placed before us as we move towards a new century. We need to continue a team effort to conduct relevant research studies and culturally sensitive training programs in order to provide appropriate and effective mental health services to a diverse multicultural population group. RELEVANCE TO ASIAN PACIFIC ISLANDER AMERICAN POPULATIONS. This paper provides a historical context to the study of mental health among Asian Pacific Islander American populations. KEY WORDS. Asian Americans; Pacific Islanders; service; research, training, mental health.