It may seem unusual for some to say the words “celebrate” and “mental health” in the same sentence.
In a world where mental health is rarely discussed, especially in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities, it IS a reason to celebrate.
Today, Congress is expected to pass a resolution declaring it the third annual National AAANHPI Mental Health Awareness Day.
In 2021, Rep Judy Chu (D-CA) introduced the first resolution declaring May 10 a day to recognize the need to promote national awareness of mental health within the AANHPI community.
The resolution also urges state and local health agencies to improve the quality of mental health care within that community.
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The National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association is leading the effort with the support of dozens of community partners and organizations.
Shortly after the Texas mall shootings that claimed the lives of eight people including four Asian Americans, the group released mental health resources for those impacted by the violence.
It also has a guide on where to find care in all 50 states.
The South Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund also released a statement in support of this day.
“We encourage you to spend the day in whatever feels meaningful in the centering of your own mental well-being – from learning more about coping strategies to taking care of your own mental health,” the group said.
It also has a series of podcasts in both English and Punjabi about various coping mechanisms.
SALDEF also released a series of one-page guides to teach how to support a loved one or deal with stress yourself.
Four states have also proclaimed this AANHPI Mental Health Day. Those states are California, Illinois, Michigan and Colorado with 27 states considering it.
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