Unlocking Resilience: Filipino American History and Mental Health
October is more than just pumpkin spice lattes and fall leaves—it's Filipino American History Month,
a time to honor the vibrant culture, rich heritage, and inspiring stories of the Filipino American community. As someone who wears the hats of both a psychologist and a proud how Filipina American, I wanted to share with you about the links between our cultural history and mental well-being.
1. The Power of Cultural Identity:
Our cultural identity isn't just a part of who we are; it's a source of strength that can profoundly impact our mental well-being. It's like the secret ingredient in your grandma's adobo recipe that adds flavor and depth to your life. Research tells us that a strong connection to our roots boosts self-esteem, resilience, and a sense of belonging. But here's the kicker—it's not just for Filipinos. The beauty of cultural identity is that it transcends boundaries and enriches everyone it touches.
Get involved: If you’re not Filipino: start by asking your Filipino American friends about their traditions. Don't be surprised if they invite you to share in the celebration because we Filipinos are notorious for our love of sharing our food and festivity with others. Sometimes, all it takes is an open heart and a willingness to embrace the beauty of another culture. If you are Filipino: take time to explore your Filipino heritage. Whether through traditional practices, cuisine, or storytelling, reconnecting with your roots can deepen your sense of cultural identity and improve your mental well-being.
2. Embracing Our Legacy:
Our journey as Filipino Americans is a story of resilience against all odds. It's the tale of your tito who braved the waves to provide a better life, the story of lolas and lolos who sacrificed for their families, and the countless unsung heroes who fought for justice and equality. Understanding this history is not just about preserving the past; it's about learning from it to create a better future.
Get involved: Learn more about Filipino American history. Whether it's through documentaries, books, or conversations, the more you know, the better equipped you are to make a difference. Share these stories with your non-Filipino friends too, because history is meant to be shared. Here are the 3 books I’ll be reading to learn more this month:
"Empire of Care: Nursing and Migration in Filipino American History" by Catherine Ceniza Choy - This book delves into the significant contributions of Filipino nurses to the U.S. healthcare system, tracing their history and impact on the Filipino American community and the broader American society.
"The Latinos of Asia: How Filipino Americans Break the Rules of Race" by Anthony Christian Ocampo - This book explores the unique experiences and racial dynamics that shape Filipino American identity. It offers a contemporary perspective on the Filipino American community and its place in American society.
"America Is Not the Heart" by Elaine Castillo - This novel tells the story of Hero, a former political prisoner in the Philippines, who relocates to the San Francisco Bay Area. The book explores themes of immigration, identity, family, and the Filipino diaspora experience in the United States.
3. Promoting Mental Health Awareness:
Speaking about mental health should be as essential as rice with every meal. In the Filipino American community, mental health can sometimes be a tricky topic to navigate due to cultural stigmas. But by breaking the silence and offering support, we can create a safe space for everyone.
Get involved: Start conversations about mental health, not just this month but whenever the opportunity arises. Share resources and be there for friends or family members who might need support. Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word to make a significant impact. There are amazing Filipino-American therapists on social media and here are just 3 of them you can follow today:
@the.drtherapinay, who maintains an online directory to find Filipino therapists.
@dr.rona.psyd, who focuses on Fil-Am and AAPI Mental health.
@the.brown.psych, who focuses on destigmatizing and decolonizing mental health.
Let's honor Filipino American History Month by celebrating the diverse and resilient community we're a part of. Our cultural identity is a powerful force, our history is a source of inspiration, and our collective voice can shatter the stigma around mental health. Together, we can make a difference, one conversation, one story, and one shared dish at a time.
Stay inspired, and keep the adobo simmering!
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