At Crisis Text Line, we celebrate individuals in our volunteer community who advocate for and celebrate mental health in their own communities – these individuals are working to break the stigma every day. We work to support anyone who might be struggling – if you or someone you know could use a shoulder to lean on or someone to vent to, text CONNECT to 741741 or start a web chat here. 

In May, we observe Asian American and Pacific Islander Month—a time when we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. As part of our commitment to raising awareness and creating space for mental health equity, we celebrate and honor AAPI mental health advocates. These changemakers inspire us by making a positive impact, providing assistance and supporting those in need. Changemakers are active Crisis Text Line volunteers who take initiative within their community by consistently supporting our texters and passionately advocating for mental health to make the world a better place each day. This month we’re honoring Chris Chae. Learn more about him below!

How did you first hear about Crisis Text Line?

My friend started volunteering and shared how fulfilling it was to make an impact in other people’s lives.

Why did you decide to volunteer at Crisis Text Line?

I have lost a friend to suicide in the past and I remember feeling powerless and helpless when I heard of his passing. I thought that volunteering here and actively changing the lives of people that need help would be a way to honor his life and continue to give back to people who need it.

Why is AAPI Month so important to you?

It is important to me because often AAPI culture pushes this agenda that we must push ourselves above and beyond without showing weakness often at the expense of our own mental health. Too often I’ve  seen friends and family around me break down as they push themselves past their limits and blame themselves. AAPI Month to me means bringing AAPI issues into light and changing the stigma and culture to be one that is healthier.

Besides volunteering with us, how do you impact the community around you as it pertains to AAPI and mental health?

I am headed off to University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in the fall where I aim to become a psychiatrist, with an interest in AAPI mental health.

Who inspires you?

My mother who lives by example what it means to be a humble, yet directed leader both in the home, in her work, and for her community.

Join a community of empathy and support, and help those around you by becoming a Volunteer Crisis Counselor today. Prefer to support in other ways? Consider donating to Crisis Text Line instead – donate here.

What is AAPI and why is it celebrated in May?

Since 1990, the U.S. government has designated the month of May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. May was designated AAPI Month to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants to arrive in the U.S. in 1843. Today, we continue to celebrate all of the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Mental Health Stigma within the AAPI Community

Mental health stigma remains a pervasive issue within the Asian American community. Discussions surrounding mental health challenges are often met with silence and denial, perpetuating a cycle of suffering alone. According to Crisis Text Line’s United in Empathy Report, forty two percent of our texters who identified as Asian report feeling stressed and anxious, and thirty one percent struggle with depression and sadness. Asian Americans often hold values that emphasize resilience and perseverance which can inadvertently discourage seeking help for psychological distress.

Overcoming this stigma requires people to take down misconceptions and foster open dialogue, while promoting culturally sensitive approaches to mental health care. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, we can work towards creating a community where seeking help for mental health concerns is normalized and encouraged.

Mental Health Resources for the AAPI Community

At Crisis Text Line, we pride ourselves on the resources we’re able to provide to our texters. We partner with organizations like The Asian Mental Health Project (AMHP) to amplify these resources to our texters and to offer them the help and support they need. AMHP aims to educate and empower Asian communities in seeking mental health care. We’re able to work with partners like these to provide resources such as mental health school supplies, planners, and plans to help crush finals week. 

In our Community Resilience Report, we found that young people across the United States are feeling sad and hopeless. Over 1 in 6 high school students have made a suicide plan; over 40% of them are sad. Over five million adolescents experienced depression in 2022, up from two million in 2010. More than 1,500 died by suicide in the same year, compared to less than 1,000 in 2010. The AMHP often focuses on the needs of the younger Asian population in schools, advocating that resources should go beyond the classroom. Communities need to reframe their approach to mental health support and reinvest in providing the resources young people need. 

Help us continue to provide support to the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities this month, and every month. Remember – if you ever need support – we are here for you. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a live volunteer Counselor. Or if you are interested in making a difference and changing or saving someone’s life, join our volunteer community today.