Breaking Cultural Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health

Growing up in a Filipino household, mental health wasn’t something we really talked about. When I felt anxious or overwhelmed, I was told to pray, distract myself, or just push through it. My family cared about me deeply, but mental health was seen as something you handled privately, not something you openly discussed. Because of that, I learned to hide what I was feeling.

When I started noticing how easily I got distracted, how hard it was to focus, and how often I felt tense or on edge, I started wondering if something deeper was going on. I finally decided to bring up the idea of getting tested for ADHD and anxiety to my family. It wasn’t easy. I was nervous about what they’d say or if they’d even take me seriously. Mental health diagnoses aren’t really talked about in my culture, and I was afraid of being misunderstood.

When I eventually got my full diagnosis- ADHD and generalized anxiety disorder, it felt like everything finally made sense. It was scary but also relieving. For so long, I thought I was just lazy or overreacting. But now, I understand why my brain worked the way it did. 

College helped me see that, too. At UD, I met people who talked about therapy and mental health openly. Hearing others share their stories made me feel less alone and more comfortable speaking up. I remember finally going to the Wellbeing Center after putting it off for weeks. I was scared, but that first appointment reminded me that everyone deserves help, no matter how “small” their problems might seem.

In many Asian families, there’s still a lot of stigma around mental health. We’re raised to stay strong, stay quiet, and not make a big deal out of our emotions. But being honest about what you’re going through doesn’t make you weak. It shows courage. It shows self-awareness.

Having ADHD and generalized anxiety disorder doesn’t define me, but it’s part of my journey. Talking about it helps me accept it, and helps others know they’re not alone. Mental health is something I value deeply, and I want to use my voice to spread awareness, especially in Asian communities where the topic is often avoided.

There were times when my anxiety made it hard to speak up or connect with others. I used to keep to myself, afraid of saying the wrong thing or not fitting in. But joining AAPC changed that. The community made me feel seen and welcomed. Being part of AAPC helped me break out of my shell and realize that sharing your story can inspire others. It showed me that vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s what brings people together.

We can’t change cultural stigma overnight, but we can start by having honest conversations and supporting each other. Because everyone deserves to feel understood, cared for, and heard.