Grow and Glow: Cathy Zhang

Mental Health within the Asian Community

May is Asian Heritage Month & Mental Health Awareness Month

May is both Asian Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month; therefore, we wanted to highlight and chat about the importance of mental health within the Asian population. In our conversation with Cathy Zhang, she shared her insights between mental health and the Asian community and culture. This blog recognizes the initiatives of the Chinese community to create awareness about mental health while also delving into Cathy Zhang's own personal thoughts on mental health.

Cathy mentions that there is a prevalent existing stigma surrounding mental health in various cultures, including her own the Chinese culture. However, she has seen a positive shift in recent times, with increased awareness and understanding of mental health within Chinese communities. Cathy has seen motivated organizations create culturally tailored programs and community workshops as an effective tool aimed to play a significant role in diminishing the stigma. These initiatives not only emphasize the significance of cultural nuances but also provide a supportive environment where the community can gain knowledge about coping strategies when confronted with mental health challenges without any judgement.

Chinese culture encompasses traditions that are strongly rooted in generational values and habits. These customs are influenced by the culture itself. On one hand, there is a strong emphasis on respecting elders, practicing filial piety, and maintaining strong family bonds. On the other hand, when it comes to societal responsibilities such as education and employment, traditional Chinese values highlight the importance of hard work, perseverance, and academic success. In correlation to these generational values, in Asian culture, there is a prioritization of strong family and community bonds. In this regard, Cathy acknowledges the value of embracing her Asian heritage, which has nurtured her sense of belonging and connection. Whenever she encounters stress or difficulties, she finds solace in turning to her family and parents as she knows her family is always ready to help her in analyzing situations and providing unconditional support.

Overall, Cathy honours the essence of her heritage, while also adapting certain Chinese traditions to better align with her new Canadian lifestyle and her own beliefs. Cathy recognizes that there is still obvious improvement needed to be done with regards to mental health awareness and acceptance within her culture; however, she is excited to see more support and resources being made available. Cathy also understands that there are pressures that certain generational traditions and values can have on ones mental health and personal worth, but acknowledges the positive values that uplift and connect the Asian community. Like any culture there are pros and cons with past traditions, values, and cultural identity; however, as Cathy expressed having a strong sense of community, plus supportive initiatives available can foster positive mental health practices for individuals.

We hope this short blog has you pondering your culture’s relationship with mental health and how its traditions and values may hinder or may help with individuals personal mental health.

Thank you Cathy for sharing your thoughts and providing the Glow Community insight on Mental Health in the Chinese Community!

GROW & GLOW: A series that highlights firsthand accounts, personal experiences, and stories of inspiration from our community and beyond.

Written by Amely Rivera

Edited by Claire Connop