Culturally Responsive Mental Health Care for Asian Americans: A Call to Action

Though Asian Americans (AAs) are the fastest growing racially minoritized group in the United States, their mental health care needs have not received adequate attention. AAs are less likely to seek mental health care than other minoritized groups. When they do, they often present more acutely, a trend exacerbated by events amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, AAs experienced increased discrimination and anti-Asian hate crimes that still persist today. One in five AAs who has encountered racism has suffered psychological and emotional effects as a result. Recent studies have shown an increased risk of depression associated with anti-Asian crime rates. Although the psychological toll of COVID-19-related racism has led to increased prevalence of overall mental health symptoms, the likelihood that AAs seek care still remains low. This column highlights the specific challenges faced by AAs and the critical need for culturally responsive mental health initiatives and resources to better serve the unique needs of this community.