Asian American & Pacific Islander Mental Health FAQs
Question: What are some common mental health symptoms that AAPIs experience?
Answer: Many AAPI people experience their health as a mixture of mental and physical symptoms. As a result, AAPI Hunter students will often experience simultaneous physical ailments along with mental health difficulties. Common symptoms include: Fatigue, Low Motivation, Low Mood/Feeling Blue, Chest Pains, Stomach Aches, Headaches, Back Pain, Anxiety or Panic, Distractedness, Nausea, Constipation, Diarrhea Self-Harm, Thoughts of Suicide,Too Much or Too Little Sleep, Substance Abuse, Dizziness/Feeling Disoriented, Feeling Hot or Sweaty, Overeating, Undereating
Question: Why are AAPIs often hesitant to seek out mental health support?
Answer: Mental Health distress is often viewed as a sign of familial weakness, and as a result, symptoms and related treatment are highly stigmatized in the community. AAPI Hunter Students who experience mental health distress may know about the Counseling and Wellness center on campus, but feel hesitant about seeking such services to prevent loss of face.
Question: How can I get more involved in the HCAP Mental Health Program?
Answer: Many ways! The ASIAN 230.02 Class, AAPI Communities and Mental Health, offers an opportunity to learn more about AAPI mental health issues and experiences. You can also contact the Marcia Liu, the HCAP Mental Health Specialist at ml2138@hunter.cuny.edu, and get involved in planning some of the events we host on campus.