Asian American & Mental Health

©Michelle Chan

May is doubly awesome! Why you ask? Because not only is it Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, it is also Mental Health Awareness Month. Two topics that I feel passionately about!

As a second generation Asian American (meaning I was born and raised in the U.S., while my parents immigrated to the U.S.) who has experienced the richness of being part of two very different cultures, I have also experienced firsthand the challenges that sometimes come with multiculturalism as well. Navigating both cultures’ norms, expectations, and rules was, and still is, no easy feat at times. Fortunately, I have been able to strike a balance of both cultures that works and fits who I am and desire to be.
 
Many times, first, second, and even third and fourth generation minorities feel an inner conflict in their attempt to navigate two different, and sometimes contradicting cultures. Leaving some to believe that they need to abandon one or the other to maintain sanity, to fit in, or to develop who they are as individuals. Sometimes it just takes time, patience, and a lot of navigating to be able to successfully do so, adapting what works and letting go of what doesn't fit from each culture. At times, it becomes too much, too overwhelming, and too frustrating to handle alone.

Having gone through that journey myself, I am passionate in lending a helping hand to those who are going through this journey now. I want to be able to help others who are going through what I've experienced, so as to help them establish a balance in their lives by incorporating all parts of who they are to form a complete whole. Let's see if we can get started on this journey together to explore fits you!


“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” –Helen Keller