“A culturally competent health care system acknowledge the importance of culture, recognizes the potential of cultural differences, expands cultural knowledge, and adapts services to meet culturally unique needs."

•  22.9 million Asian/Pacific Americans in the US; 2.9 million living with mental health conditions (ADAA)

• Three times less likely than their white counterparts to seek treatment for their mental health concerns

• Many avoid seeking treatment or services because it would be admitting the existence of a mental health disorder and/or bring shame, embarrassment, loss of face

• Treatment issues (mha)

  • Language barriers: difficult to access mental health; “taboo” where many neglect and deny their symptoms

  • Lack of awareness or resources and services available

• Model minority myth: due to being viewed as “models” → lack of attention to AAPI issues in mental health research and clinical practices

  • Implications of culturally competent care:

    • Be aware of inaccurate stereotypes/myths

    • Assess personal stereotypes

    • Understand the diversity and socioeconomic status of those who identify as Asian

(n.d.). Becoming a culturally competent health care organization. American Hospital Association. https://www.aha.org/ahahret-guides/2013-06-18-becoming-culturally-competent-health-care-organization.

(2023, February 25). Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. Anxiety & Depression Association of America. https://adaa.org/find-help/by-demographics/asian-pacific-islanders.

(n.d.). Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders communies and mental health. Mental Health America. https://www.mhanational.org/issues/asian-american-pacific-islander-communities-and-mental-health.

Iwamasa, G. Y. (2012). Recommendations for the Treatment of Asian-American/Pacific Islander Populations. American Psychological Association.  [https://www.apa.org/pi/oema/resources/ethnicity-health/asian-american/psychological-treatment](https://www.apa.org/pi/oema/resources/ethnicity-health/asian-american/psychological-treatment).

(n.d.). Cultural Competency for AA and NHPI Communities. Minority Health.HHS. https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/aanhpihm/cultural-competency/.