Us Congress Senate Bill SR205

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/10/23
• Refer: 5/10/23

Caption

A resolution supporting the designation of May 10, 2023, as "National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day".

Impact

The resolution brings to light alarming statistics about mental health service utilization among the AANHPI community, which indicates that a significant portion of individuals with mental health issues do not receive adequate care. In 2021, for example, it was reported that 77 percent of those meeting mental health criteria did not seek treatment. A particular focus is placed on the health crises faced by AANHPI youth, for whom suicide was the leading cause of death during a recent study period. Therefore, the resolution encourages federal, state, and local health agencies to adopt policies aimed at improving access to mental health services.

Summary

SR205 is a resolution that aims to designate May 10, 2023, as 'National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day.' This initiative highlights the importance of mental health awareness within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, which are noted for their rapid growth and significant contributions to the United States. The resolution seeks not only to bring attention to mental health issues affecting these diverse populations but also to promote a cultural connection to good mental health.

Contention

While the resolution is largely supportive in nature, it also raises some contentious points regarding the need for culturally and linguistically appropriate solutions tailored to specific subpopulations within the AANHPI community. Critiques may arise regarding the adequacy of existing services and the historical experiences of discrimination faced by these communities, which contribute to mental health crises. Thus, raising mental health literacy and removing the stigma associated with seeking help are essential goals outlined within SR205.