Tag Archives: awareness

School work identified as key stressor for AAPI youth

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Mental health challenges among AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) youth have often been overlooked due to a lack of research and attention to their unique struggles. A recent study by The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), titled “Beyond the Surface: Understanding Mental Health Among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Youth,” sheds light on this critical issue. The study reveals that academic pressure is one of the most significant stressors for AANHPI youth, driven by cultural expectations linking success in school to upward mobility and respect. This stress is further amplified by the “model minority” stereotype, which imposes unrealistic standards of excellence while dismissing emotional vulnerability. By addressing these unique challenges, the study offers insights into solutions for a group often misunderstood and underserved in mental health discussions.

“The biggest stressor on mental health that youth reported was actually pressure to succeed, both self-imposed and from families,” Dr. Charissa Cheah, lead researcher

Key Facts

Exacerbation by the COVID-19 Pandemic:

  • Heightened mental health struggles during the pandemic.
  • Complicated identity development due to the rise in anti-Asian hate.

Cultural Challenges:

  • Difficulty navigating cultural heritage in a climate of racism.

Stressors:

  • Discrimination and its impact on mental health.
  • Academic pressures contributing to a “perfect storm” of stress.

Isolation and Anxiety:

  • Increased feelings of loneliness and worry among AANHPI youth.

Alarming Statistics:

  • Suicide is the leading cause of death for young AANHPI individuals, per CDC data.
  • One in three AANHPI youth has considered or attempted suicide.

Addressing the mental health challenges faced by AANHPI youth requires urgent attention and action. The compounded pressures of academic expectations, cultural identity struggles, and discrimination, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have created a crisis that cannot be ignored. With one in three AANHPI youth considering or attempting suicide, these alarming statistics serve as a stark reminder of the need for culturally responsive mental health resources and support systems. By acknowledging and addressing these unique challenges, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and understanding environment where AANHPI youth feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.


面对压力时，要学会呼吸放松。
Learn to breathe and relax when facing stress.

Reference: https://asamnews.com/2024/12/27/beyond-the-surface-of-aanhpi-youth-mental-health-research/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0Oe5d1oc80z-JadHPJuCvh3k2LdlTzZeJHW6kUaPH5VFXwjnpg9aXnmVU_aem_aKVwcfNMD6Tnep0Xa9lLtA

Marijuana use linked to higher risk of heart attack and stroke

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New research suggests that using cannabis—whether by smoking, eating, or vaping—may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the study found that cannabis users faced higher cardiovascular risks, regardless of tobacco use or other underlying health factors. Dr. Abra Jeffers, a data analyst at Massachusetts General Hospital, highlighted the growing misconception that cannabis use is harmless, particularly as smoking remains the predominant method of consumption, exposing users to particulate matter. With recreational marijuana now legal in 24 states and its usage nearly doubling since 2002, understanding its health impacts is increasingly critical. The study analyzed survey data from over 434,000 U.S. adults between 2016 and 2020, focusing on cardiovascular outcomes like heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes—even among non-tobacco users and younger individuals at lower baseline risk. Prior research on marijuana’s cardiovascular effects has been limited due to overlapping tobacco use and younger study populations, but this study underscores the potential dangers as cannabis use becomes more widespread.

Key Facts

  • Higher Risk with Any Use: Any marijuana use was associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Frequent Use Increases Risk: Daily marijuana users had 25% higher odds of heart attack and 42% higher odds of stroke compared to non-users.
  • Smoking as Predominant Method: Smoking was the most common way people consumed cannabis, followed by eating and vaping.
  • Increased Odds for Younger Adults: Men under 55 and women under 65 who used marijuana had a 36% higher combined odds of coronary heart disease, heart attack, or stroke, even without tobacco or e-cigarette use.
  • Independent Risk Factor: The elevated odds for cardiovascular issues persisted even in individuals who had never used tobacco products or e-cigarettes.

These findings underscore the importance of understanding the potential health risks associated with marijuana use, particularly as its prevalence continues to rise and perceptions of its safety shift. With smoking remaining the most common method of consumption and frequent use linked to significantly higher odds of cardiovascular issues, it’s crucial for individuals to consider these risks and for healthcare providers to address them in discussions about overall heart health. As marijuana use becomes more widespread, further research is needed to provide a clearer picture of its long-term impact on public health.

Reference: https://www.heart.org/en/news/2024/02/28/marijuana-use-linked-to-higher-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke

Strings, Stories, and Dumplings: A Cross-Cultural Artistic Journey

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Growing up as a Black artist deeply immersed in AAPI communities, I’ve had the unique privilege of learning from traditions that have enriched my life and artistry. My Chinese godmother from Beijing played a profound role in shaping my understanding of culture through the art of cooking. I still remember standing by her side in the kitchen as she showed me how to wrap dumplings with care, explaining the significance of each ingredient. Her stories about the dishes she grew up with connected me to a heritage that wasn’t my own by birth, but one that became a part of me through shared meals and loving mentorship. The kitchen became a sacred space where culture, history, and love blended together, teaching me the value of preserving traditions.

Another important influence in my life was an elder from the AAPI community who introduced me to the art of guzheng, the Chinese zither. The first time I touched the strings, I felt an immediate connection to its hauntingly beautiful tones and the centuries of history it carried. My teacher’s patience and dedication were inspiring as he guided me through the techniques and the cultural stories behind the music. Through this practice, I not only learned to play an instrument but also became a custodian of an art form that deserves to be celebrated. These experiences instilled in me a deep respect for the ways in which traditional arts can bridge cultural gaps and preserve histories that might otherwise be lost.

As a Black artist based in Minnesota, I’ve seen firsthand how traditional arts can build understanding and nurture creative expression. I encourage Minnesotans to engage more actively with BIPOC art forms, whether it’s attending a local Guzheng performance, joining a cooking workshop led by immigrant elders, or participating in collaborative art projects. By creating spaces where diverse traditions are honored and practiced, we not only preserve cultural legacies but also cultivate a thriving community of creativity and respect. Invest in these traditions, not just for their beauty but for the stories and connections they bring to our lives.

Jarrelle （杰遨 ）Barton

Balancing Two Worlds: Mental Health and the Bicultural Journey

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As a Black man navigating a bicultural identity, my life has often felt like a balancing act. On one hand, there’s the rich heritage of Black culture—our resilience, creativity, and deep sense of community. On the other, there’s the broader world, shaped by systems and norms that weren’t built with us in mind. Growing up, I often felt like I had to adjust who I was depending on where I was and who I was with. That constant adjustment took its toll, leaving me with an unspoken pressure to perform and to prove myself at all times.

The impact of living biculturally is something I didn’t fully understand until I started unpacking it. Therapy wasn’t talked about much in my community growing up, but it became a lifeline for me. It gave me the space to address feelings of invisibility—being overlooked in rooms where my voice and presence should have mattered. Meditation also played a key role in helping me ground myself, allowing me to explore who I am outside the expectations of others. I’ve learned that I don’t have to shrink parts of myself to fit in; my identity is mine to define, and it’s valid in all its complexity.

Healing has come through embracing creative expression and mindfulness. Poetry, music, and meditation have become tools for reflecting on my bicultural identity, allowing me to weave together the richness of my heritage with the realities of the present. Each act of creation—whether a poem, a melody, or a moment of stillness—serves as a bridge, transforming the complexities of living between cultures into something harmonious and inspiring. Sharing my journey through art has sparked meaningful connections with others who see themselves in my work, reminding me that our stories, though unique, often resonate deeply. My bicultural identity is not a burden but a wellspring of inspiration, offering a lens for storytelling that builds understanding, beauty, and connection where cultures meet.

Key Points

  • The mental health struggles of being Black with a bicultural identity
  • The importance of seeking therapy and practicing mindfulness
  • Challenging the stigma around vulnerability
  • Embracing biculturalism as a strength

Quote

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” – James Baldwin

Embracing creativity and mindfulness can transform the challenges of bicultural identity into a source of healing and inspiration. – 拥抱创造力和正念，可以将双文化身份的挑战转化为治愈和灵感的源泉。

Jarrelle ( 杰遨 – Jieao ) Barton

The Panda and the Dragon – Symbols of Chinese Culture and Identity.

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In Chinese folklore, two iconic emblems stand as symbols of power and peace—the mighty dragon and the gentle panda. The dragon, a noble creature from ancient times, dazzles with its shining armor and bold presence. It roars across the skies, representing sovereignty and strength, embodying the awe-inspiring energy that has captivated hearts for generations.

In contrast, the panda, with its distinctive black-and-white coat, exudes a calm and friendly demeanor. A peaceful symbol of harmony, it spends its days leisurely munching on bamboo, captivating all who encounter its gentle charm. The panda’s composed nature stands as a reminder of the value of simplicity and kindness in a world that often moves too fast.

Together, the dragon and the panda represent a balanced duality—power and grace, majesty and tranquility. As national symbols of China, they embody pride and identity, showcasing the richness of the culture they come from. The dragon soars with unbridled energy, while the panda invites us to pause and appreciate life’s serene moments.

Reference:https://www.joelwong.net/2024/03/21/the-panda-and-the-dragon-each-representing-different-aspects-of-chinese-culture-and-identity/

Healing Through Heritage: How BIPOC Creators are Reclaiming Ancestral Narratives

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Art has always been a lifeline for BIPOC creators—a way to reach back across time and reclaim the stories of our ancestors, stories often erased or distorted by colonization and oppression. For many, creating is not just about making something beautiful; it’s a way of finding their place in a lineage, exploring questions of identity, displacement, and belonging. Each brushstroke, verse, or frame becomes a thread in the larger tapestry of our heritage, woven anew for a modern world. This process is deeply personal, a journey of healing and reconnection that carries their roots forward into the future.

We see this vividly in the work of filmmakers like Ava DuVernay and Taika Waititi, who use their art to challenge mainstream narratives and center the voices of their communities. Their films are more than stories—they are acts of cultural preservation and defiance. Similarly, visual artists turn to the symbols and practices of their ancestors, using them to honor their lineage while creating something entirely new. Musicians, too, are keeping traditions alive, blending traditional rhythms and languages with contemporary sounds to craft music that feels both timeless and revolutionary. Their work bridges the gap between past and present, a testament to the resilience and creativity of cultures.

But this creative reclamation isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about shaping the future. By sharing our heritage through art, we empower our communities, especially younger generations, to see the beauty and strength in their identities. They remind us all that culture isn’t something static or stuck in history—it’s a living, breathing force. It evolves, expands, and takes on new life through the hands of those who dare to remember and reimagine it. Through their work, these creators aren’t just keeping traditions alive—they’re making space for the next chapter to be written.

Jarrelle Barton (杰遨- Jieao)

A pathway to peace through ancient wisdom – Jeffrey Sachs

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The world faces pressing challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, poverty, and conflict, underscoring the need for peaceful coexistence. Jeffrey Sachs critiques the arrogance of post-Cold War US dominance, which he argues has fueled costly wars and instability, contrasting it with the wisdom of ancient civilizations, particularly Confucian principles of reciprocity and mutual respect, including the maxim “Do not do to others what you do not want them to do.” These values align with China’s Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence—mutual respect, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and peaceful coexistence—offering a framework for global harmony. Both Confucius and Aristotle highlight the importance of virtue ethics and good character as essential for individuals and leaders. The Global Civilizations Initiative builds on this ancient wisdom, leveraging diverse cultural insights to promote shared human values, global peace, and sustainable development.

Further Perspectives:

  • The video suggests that applying Confucian principles and other ancient philosophies can help address modern global issues.
  • While ancient wisdom is presented as a valuable tool for fostering cooperation, it is not claimed to be a complete solution to all contemporary problems.
  • The critique of Western dominance emphasizes that unilateral actions have led to negative consequences, advocating instead for approaches rooted in harmony and mutual respect.

Main Highlights:

  • The need for peaceful coexistence in the face of global challenges.
  • Critique of Western dominance and its negative consequences.
  • Importance of Confucian principles and other ancient wisdom for fostering cooperation.
  • Global Civilizations Initiative’s efforts to promote peace and sustainability.
  • Value of ancient wisdom in addressing modern global issues.

Embracing the wisdom of ancient civilizations and principles like reciprocity, virtue ethics, and peaceful coexistence provides a guiding light in addressing global challenges. By fostering mutual respect, shared values, and collaboration through initiatives like the Global Civilizations Initiative, we can build a more harmonious, sustainable, and prosperous world for all.

Reference:https://www.joelwong.net/2024/09/28/a-pathway-to-peace-through-ancient-wisdom-jeffrey-sachs/

Unfolding Identity: The Bicultural Poetic Path

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Bicultural poetry, as a form of artistic expression, holds a unique power to heal generational trauma by bridging cultural divides and embracing the complexity of dual identities. It speaks directly to the lived experiences of people of color who navigate two or more cultural worlds, allowing them to confront and process deep-rooted traumas that may have been passed down through generations. Through language, imagery, and rhythm that reflect their heritage, bicultural poets create spaces for acknowledging pain, embracing resilience, and cultivating a sense of unity within themselves and across communities. By expressing these layered experiences, bicultural poetry becomes a way to honor the past while actively participating in personal and collective healing.

For people of color in bicultural communities, bicultural poetry is a source of empowerment. It provides a voice to navigate the nuances of identity, community, and the emotional landscapes that come with straddling multiple cultures. Through this medium, individuals reclaim parts of themselves that may have been marginalized or disregarded, making it a powerful tool for self-expression and affirmation. Poems exploring cultural duality allow POC to celebrate their heritage, confront stereotypes, and challenge societal expectations. As these voices gain visibility, they contribute to a broader narrative of cultural pride and resilience, inspiring others within these communities to find strength in their own stories.

Bicultural poetry not only heals and empowers but also forges new paths for marginalized voices to be seen and heard. This form of poetry creates visibility for experiences often ignored by mainstream narratives, offering a stage for voices that might otherwise remain unheard. By addressing issues such as racism, assimilation, and cultural erasure, bicultural poetry sheds light on societal inequities and fosters understanding across cultural lines. The resulting visibility does more than raise awareness; it invites solidarity and empathy, inspiring audiences from all backgrounds to value and support the richness of diverse perspectives.

Jarrelle （杰遨）

The Healthiest Takeout Orders for Every Type of Cuisine

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When it comes to takeout, we often think convenience means compromising on health—but it doesn’t have to! The Healthiest Takeout Orders for Every Type of Cuisine gives you the inside scoop on how to make healthier choices without sacrificing the flavors you love. Whether you’re craving Chinese, Mexican, Italian, or Indian, each cuisine has tasty, nutrient-packed options that keep you satisfied and energized. From smart substitutions to mindful portion choices, this guide helps you enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free. Next time you’re ordering out, you’ll know exactly how to choose meals that support your health goals and taste amazing.

What Is Healthy Takeout?

Healthy takeout food focuses on fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients and balanced portions that nourish your body without overloading on calories, salt, or unhealthy fats. Rather than heavily fried or highly processed items, it includes options like lean proteins, whole grains, and an abundance of vegetables, herbs, and spices that bring rich flavors and natural nutrients. Healthy takeout also prioritizes cooking methods like steaming, grilling, or baking over deep-frying and often limits added sugars or creamy sauces. By choosing lighter ingredients and opting for smaller portions or shared dishes, healthy takeout becomes a way to enjoy a convenient meal that aligns with wellness goals.

Healthy Takeout

  • Sushi Rolls – Opt for rolls with lean fish (like tuna or salmon), lots of veggies, and brown rice if available. Avoid heavy sauces and fried rolls.
  • Miso Soup – A light, nutrient-packed starter with a rich, savory flavor, full of probiotics and low in calories.
  • Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – Choose a veggie or lean protein option (like chicken or tofu) and load up on fresh herbs and veggies for extra nutrients.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu or Chicken – Request light sauce or sauce on the side to reduce added sodium and sugar.
  • Buddha’s Delight (Mixed Vegetables) – This traditional Chinese dish is packed with a variety of vegetables and often features tofu, making it a nutrient-dense choice.
  • Steamed Dumplings – Select veggie or shrimp dumplings and avoid fried versions to cut down on calories and fats.
  • Sashimi – For a low-carb, high-protein option, try a sashimi platter that gives you lean fish without added carbs or sauces.
  • Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum) – This refreshing salad is packed with fresh vegetables and a bit of spice, offering a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option.
  • Edamame – A high-protein, low-fat snack that’s simple, satisfying, and loaded with fiber.
  • Seaweed Salad – A mineral-rich and low-calorie side packed with fiber and antioxidants.

Choosing fresh and light takeout options lets you enjoy the rich flavors of Asian cuisine while nourishing your body with balanced, wholesome ingredients. Meals like sashimi, steamed dumplings, and veggie-packed stir-fries provide protein, fiber, and essential nutrients without the heaviness of overly processed or fried foods. By selecting dishes loaded with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and nutrient-dense ingredients, you’re giving your body what it needs to feel energized and satisfied. Embracing these healthier cultural dishes makes takeout a convenient, enjoyable, and health-conscious choice.

Reference:https://www.health.com/food/healthy-takeout

Bridging Worlds: How Bicultural Art Unites Us Through Diversity

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As someone who lives between cultures, I’ve come to see just how much bicultural art can bring people together. There’s something powerful about blending different worlds through music, art, or storytelling—it’s like inviting others into your own cultural home while showing them their seat at the table. When we create from our mixed backgrounds, it’s not just about sharing traditions; it’s about building real connections across barriers that might otherwise divide us. Our art becomes a reminder that, at our core, we all have shared stories and feelings that can bridge divides, often without even saying a word.

Art lets us create a common language, one that goes beyond spoken words. For many of us in bicultural spaces, creating art that merges two (or more!) cultures lets us express our identity and offer fresh perspectives that challenge stereotypes. This fusion lets people discover, experience, and appreciate traditions that are different from their own but somehow resonate just the same. Through sharing these layers of our cultures, we help open doors to genuine curiosity and dialogue. It’s an antidote to the misunderstandings that fuel racism and prejudice, building connections where walls might otherwise stand.

Celebrating our bicultural backgrounds is a way of promoting diversity and challenging the norms that often exclude or divide us. By blending elements of our various cultural worlds, we’re creating an inclusive space where differences are valued as strengths. Every time we share a piece of ourselves through art, it’s a stand against discrimination and a call for unity. We’re advocating for a world where all identities are respected, encouraging others to appreciate the rich tapestry that diverse cultures create. It’s a hopeful vision of a future where people come together through their differences rather than being divided by them.

Jarrelle (杰遨 – Jieao )