Celebrating better mental health this South East Asian Heritage Month

September is Southeast Asian Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of the southeast Asian community. This blog, written by MQ ambassador Amazin LeThi, explores the mental health challenges experienced by the Southeast Asian community.

During Southeast Asian Heritage Month, we must celebrate our rich culture while confronting the often-ignored mental health challenges in our community.

Mental health is still a taboo topic, hidden behind stigma and silence. As a queer Asian woman who has faced mental health struggles, I hope my openness to share my own mental health journey encourages greater understanding and openness in our community.

Southeast Asia is diverse, yet shared cultural values—like prioritising family and academic success—can lead to neglecting mental health. In our community, mental health is often seen as a personal issue, not a medical one. Seeking help is sometimes viewed as a weakness, leaving many to suffer in silence.

For southeast Asians in the diaspora, particularly in western countries, migration introduces a new layer of complexity. The struggle to balance cultural identity with the pressures of assimilation can lead to isolation and identity crises. The lingering trauma of war and displacement, especially within my Vietnamese community, deeply affects families, yet these issues often remain unspoken.

Barriers to mental health care include language obstacles, lack of culturally competent services, and fear of community judgment. Even when help is sought, western care models may not align with southeast Asian beliefs, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive approaches.

To move forward, we must educate our community about mental health and LGBTQ issues, advocate for culturally competent care, and create safe spaces for open dialogue. Engaging youth is key to breaking the cycle of silence, and addressing intergenerational trauma through both therapy and cultural practices is essential.

As we celebrate Southeast Asian Heritage Month, , let’s work toward a future where mental health is embraced and our community thrives in openness and support.