The field of psychology has come a long way in understanding the importance of mental health and the significant role it plays in our overall well-being. Mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and stress have become increasingly prevalent in our society, and the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community is no exception. In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, the AAPI Faculty Staff Association spoke with two postdoctoral residents at Loyola Marymount University about their experiences with the AAPI community and mental health.
Jedd Alejandro, Ph.D., a postdoctoral resident at Student Psychological Services, shared his background and journey to LMU. Alejandro earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology and completed his doctorate in clinical psychology at Loma Linda University. He has experience in individual and group therapy with adults struggling with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, grief and loss, relationship concerns, and trauma. Alejandro shared that he is interested in working with people of diverse identities and cultural backgrounds, including those who identify as Asian/Asian American, LGBTQ, and first-generation college students.
Orlando Jayasiri Gunesekere, Psy.D., who is from Sri Lanka, has been studying in the United States since 2011 when he came to the U.S. to study and earn his undergraduate degree. He completed a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy as well as his doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Azusa Pacific University. Gunesekere shared that he was drawn to LMU by its reputation and status as a private faith-based institution.
When asked about how their heritage may have played a role in their career choice and profession, Alejandro shared that his cultural beliefs and values emphasized education and health care. Although he was not particularly interested in nursing or medicine, he was drawn to psychological research from classes and mentors in his undergraduate studies. Gunesekere, on the other hand, said that his heritage did not play a role in his choice of career and profession. He knew since he was in high school that he wanted to be a psychologist.
Alejandro and Gunesekere shared the most rewarding experiences during their time at LMU. Alejandro’s most rewarding experience has been watching students be challenged and grow in the brief amount of time that he sees them. He added that many students are resilient in ways that they are not aware of, and when their strengths are acknowledged and appreciated, they are often willing to work through very difficult situations in the most effective way they know. Gunesekere shared that his most rewarding experience has been the work that he has done with his clients. He added that being the person who is present and there to listen when someone shares their emotions, experiences and their whole selves are what matters the most.
Mental health issues are not limited to the AAPI community, but there are several that impact this community. Alejandro shared that AAPI individuals experience depressive and anxiety symptoms as well as trauma. Many of these experiences occur in the context of family and close relationships with friends. The AAPI community also faces identity concerns, including those related to gender and sexual identity, which have a significant effect on overall wellness. In his therapy work with students, one of the biggest challenges is mental health stigma due to rigid cultural values. These are challenging situations that AAPI students must navigate on top of academic stress and career goals. Gunesekere added that some mental health issues experienced by the AAPI community, but not limited to this community, include anxiety, social anxiety, grief, time management/procrastination, depression, self-esteem, identity formation, and academic performance.
When asked how being part of a community affects mental health, Alejandro and Gunesekere agreed that being part of a community has the potential to have positive effects on mental health. Being part of a strong community has the potential to positively affect mental health, especially when that community has shared values and a shared history. Community provides warmth, support, kindness, understanding, and compassion, which can help individuals work through various issues in life. In the past few years, being part of a community and standing in solidarity has been particularly important for the AAPI community, especially in coping with acts of violence. However, it is important to note that not all communities may be promotive of mental health. By creating a sense of community at LMU, students who may be away from their home communities can find a supportive network and their own family away from family.
In conclusion, mental health is crucial to overall well-being, and it is vital to seek support when needed. Mental health issues impact the AAPI community, and mental health stigma due to cultural values can be a challenging situation to navigate. However, being part of a community can have positive effects on mental health. Both practitioners encourage seeking support, building relationships with others, and acknowledging one’s strengths, which can help individuals navigate challenging situations effectively. LMU’s Student Psychological Services is one resource available for students to access mental health support, and the practitioners are committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for all students.
The AAPIFSA community at LMU thanks Alejandro and Gunesekere for all of the work they have done for our students and our community.
