Asian American youth include children and youth whose ancestry traces back to the continent of Asia.

1st-generation: Youth who were born in another country and have moved to the U.S.

2nd-generation: Youth who were born in the U.S. with at least one parent born in another country. 

Santa Clara University

This study involved interviewing students who identified as first or second-generation Asian-American immigrant youth. They shared their perceptions of student mental health services.

Key Perceptions:

- Students showed that they had various amounts of knowledge regarding mental health services.

- Two misconceptions: that school counselors were only there to address academic-related concerns AND that these services were only for people who had severe mental illnesses

- Services were very practical: one student said it may be more practical since they had more time at school, and another noted that providers had more familiarity with school settings.

- Thought that the 'confidentiality' part of services was helpful. One student was relieved and felt like their community would not ask them 'hundreds of questions' and treat them differently. 

- Also felt like schools could tell parents about mental health problems which could lead to perceived stigma from parents. One student imagined their parents saying something to them like 'Why will you think you are depressed'?

School-Based Mental Health for Asian American Immigrant Youth: Perceptions

Arora, P. G. & Algios, A. (2019). School-Based Mental Health for Asian American Immigrant Youth: Perceptions and Recommendations. Volume 10 (Issue 2).166-181. dx.doi.org/10.1037/aap0000142

School - Based Mental Health for Asian American Immigrant Youth: Perceptions and Recommendations

Definitions: 1st and 2nd Generation AA Immigrant Youth

- Content of psychoeducation needs to address misconceptions around mental health and bring more awareness to the general importance of mental health

- Students suggested several ways of bringing more awareness to mental health 

- Students suggested how counselors could better engage with students AND parents.

- Students suggested how counselors could talk about the confidentiality policy to make students feel more comfortable.

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