Fostering Asian American Mental Health

Join us for an in-depth conversation about mental health within the Asian American community, featuring U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma, author of Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being. The conversation will be moderated by Vicky Nguyen, NBC News Senior Consumer Investigative Correspondent and NBC News NOW anchor.

The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community comprises almost 6 percent of the U.S. population, equating to nearly 20 million individuals. Within this diverse cultural landscape of countries, ethnicities, and nationalities, a shared tapestry is woven with experiences that significantly impact mental health. The statistical data emphasizes a troubling trend revealing an increase in serious mental illness (SMI) among young Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) individuals aged 18-25. Between 2008 and 2018, the rate surged from 2.9 percent (47,000) to 5.6 percent (136,000). These figures serve as a clear indication of the urgency to address mental health concerns within this multifaceted community. It underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive understanding and support system to bolster mental wellness within the AAPI population. The discussion will explore strategies to bring families together for intergenerational healing, addressing unique stressors experienced by different age groups—from Gen Z to the aging Greatest Generation—and combatting the pervasive loneliness felt across the lifespan.