Addiction & Mental Health Support for Asian Americans
Although Asian Americans experience the lowest rates of substance abuse, that does not mean they are unaffected by it. In fact, according to SAMHSA, 3.7% of Asian Americans 18 and older reported struggling with substance abuse in the last year. Only 0.1% of Asian Americans reported receiving treatment for substance abuse. Studies suggest that Asian Americans are more likely to hide the abuse and suffer in silence until the consequences of their addiction no longer allow them to do so.
This disparity can be attributed in part to language and cultural barriers. Mental health is often considered a taboo topic in many Asian cultures. Because of this, Asian Americans are more likely to turn to loved ones or religious leaders rather than professional services. Studies show that there is a general lack of culturally competent resources available to Asian American communities. And even when those services do exist, there is very little accessibility.
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