Asian American Mental Health

Undergraduate / Graduate

Asian Americans are one of the fastest-growing and most diverse racial groups in the US, yet they face significant disparities in mental health care access, stigma, and representation. This introductory course will explore the unique challenges and strengths of Asian Americans across the diaspora, including the historical, sociopolitical and cultural forces that shape identity, family process, mental health and trauma, resilience and resistance at the individual and community level. Throughout the course, we will explore how intersecting identities, including ethnicity, gender, class, sexual orientation, disability, religion, and generational position, impact mental health experiences and access to care for Asian Americans. The goals of this introductory course are (1) to provide a scope of the knowledge of Asian American identity and mental health that are shaped by cultural societal influences, (2) to examine and engage in a critical analysis of current research and practice with Asian Americans, and (3) to consider approaches in promoting positive mental health, well-being and resilience among Asian Americans. The course will combine theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical applications to prepare students to provide culturally competent, trauma-informed, and compassionate care.