CHATogether Community-Based Program for Evaluating Asian American and Pacific Islanders' Mental Health Needs...

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Mental Health Services
• Cultural Psychiatry

Background:

• Culturally informed mental health programs are insufficient for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs).
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted ongoing AAPI mental health needs.
• Community-based programs are essential for addressing these gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate AAPI mental health needs post-COVID-19 from community and professional perspectives.
• Assess the utility of the CHATogether interactive theater program for community partners.
• Explore the adaptability of CHATogether for diverse AAPI subpopulations.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys.
• Thematic analysis of 12 interviews with community leaders.
• Evaluation of 16 theater webinars assessing emotional responses and program satisfaction.

Main Results:

• CHATogether was perceived to meet identified AAPI mental health needs at individual, family, and service levels.
• Webinar participants reported more positive family mental health conversations post-program (p<0.001).
• The program was found helpful, informative, and adaptable, including in faith-based settings.

Conclusions:

• CHATogether, through community partnership and interactive theater, promotes AAPI mental health conversations.
• The program's creative storytelling and theater skits foster engagement.
• This model offers insights for future community-based psychiatric services.