148: Mental Health Stigma & Shame in Families - with Dr. Jenny Wang, Clinical Psychologist & National Speaker
Dec 2, 2021
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Dr. Jenny Wang, a clinical psychologist, discusses destigmatizing mental health in Asian communities, breaking cycles of shame, setting boundaries with family, and embracing authenticity and self-compassion. She also talks about her upcoming book on reclaiming mental health in the Asian-American community.
normalize mental health conversations in Asian communities
challenge shame and stigma to prioritize well-being
establish boundaries for emotional well-being during family gatherings
Deep dives
Dr. Jenny Wang: Navigating Mental Health and Cultural Identity
Dr. Jenny Wang, a first-generation Taiwanese-American clinical psychologist, discusses the challenges of being a child of immigrants. She shares her upbringing, emphasizing the importance of normalizing mental health conversations within Asian communities. Dr. Wang highlights the significance of breaking cycles, setting boundaries, and striving for authenticity. By exploring her experiences and promoting self-compassion, she encourages individuals to embrace their emotions and challenge stigmas.
Cultural Impact on Mental Health Perception
Growing up, Dr. Wang experienced mental health discussions as taboo, with mental illness viewed as severe and hidden. Over time, she learned to redefine mental health as a natural part of human experience. Within Asian culture, seeking help was stigmatized unless in extreme cases, leading to a lack of emotional expression and self-awareness. By normalizing mental health struggles, Dr. Wang aims to shift perceptions and promote self-care.
Impact of Shame and Cultural Expectations
Shame plays a significant role in Asian communities, emphasizing harmony and suppressing emotional expression. Dr. Wang highlights the pressure to maintain family honor and avoid admitting struggles or faults. The fear of disrupting peace leads to unspoken conflicts and emotional suppression, hindering personal growth. By acknowledging and challenging cultural norms, individuals can navigate shame, embrace emotions, and prioritize their well-being.
Journey to Authenticity and Self-Exploration
Living authentically, as Dr. Wang suggests, involves integrating all aspects of oneself without judgment. Embracing both light and dark parts allows for self-acceptance and growth. By nurturing curiosity and exploring personal passions, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and authenticity. Dr. Wang advises staying open to exploration, cultivating self-compassion, and embracing one's unique identity.
Navigating Boundaries and Emotional Well-being
Establishing boundaries with family members, especially during stressful times like holidays, is crucial for emotional well-being. Dr. Wang recommends setting time limits, protecting personal space, and prioritizing self-care. By embracing self-compassion and asserting boundaries, individuals can navigate challenging family dynamics and honor their mental health needs. Respecting one's emotional limits and practicing self-care can promote inner peace and resilience.
Dr. Jenny Wang, PhD, (she/her) is a first-generation, Taiwanese American clinical psychologist and national speaker in Houston, Texas.
She is also the creator of the Asians for Mental Health Directory and the founder of the Instagram community Asians for Mental Health, where she focuses on the destigmatization of mental health for Asian diaspora communities, the intersection of mental health, Asian American identity, and social justice to a community of 75K on Instagram.
In this episode, we discuss what shame around mental health looks like, being a child of immigrants and breaking cycles, viewing conflict as a tool, boundaries during the holidays, and the views of mental health in Asian American communities.
