Newsletter-November 2023

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 11

Men's Health Awareness: Breaking Barriers for South Asian Communities

In November, we spotlight men's health, focusing on essential concerns:

Mental Health:

• South Asian men often grapple with acculturation stress, stigma, gender roles, and isolation, making mental health vital.
• We aim to destigmatize mental health, enhance access, and promote the South Asian Therapists global directory and Instagram page.

Substance and Alcohol Abuse:

• South Asian men face a complex interplay of cultural and social factors contributing to substance abuse.
• We encourage dialogue and multi-faceted solutions, including cultural sensitivity and community support.

Parental Care:

• Balancing parental responsibilities is a unique challenge, with evolving roles and work-life balance.
• We advocate for community support groups to address these challenges.

Partner Violence/Domestic Violence:

• We emphasize that domestic violence affects men as well and the importance of seeking help.
• Seeking help is a sign of strength, and support is available.

Prostate and Testicular Cancer:

• Prostate and testicular cancers are significant concerns for South Asian men, necessitating regular screening.
• We recognize that cancer risks may vary in the U.S. compared to South Asian countries.

This November, we break stigmas, encourage open dialogue, and provide support for South Asian men's health. Explore community resources, nonprofit organizations, and external sources for a healthier life. Your well-being matters.

On November 16, we celebrate the International Day for Tolerance, the purpose is to raise awareness of the negative effects of an intolerant culture and celebrate receptivity. South Asia is made up of a wide range of cultures and religions and diversity is part of our identity. You can celebrate by using online platforms to spread messages of unity and respect.

SAPHA's 2023 Chai and Chat

SAPHA's presence at the Annual Meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA) continues to expand. We were pleased to present a poster on "Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 Community Outreach in the South Asian Community." In addition, our annual Chai and Chat was a great success, drawing over 50 public health professionals. hai and Chat was sponsored in part by the Indian American Impact Project.

Participants delved into defining mental health, addressing stigma in the South Asian community, and navigating complexities in evidence-based mental health research. Identifying challenges unique to our community, the SAPHA Board led breakout sessions to propose tailored solutions.

We explored the intersection of COVID-19 and mental health among South Asians and recognized the pandemic's lasting effects, particularly within our communities. Participants strongly voiced the crucial need for improved access to mental health resources. In addressing hurdles in community research, such as a lack of understanding of evidence-based practices, cultural biases, and diversity, teams brainstormed solutions, notably emphasizing the importance of viewing our community as research partners rather than subjects and highlighting the need to share research findings.

The conversations were productive and filled with enthusiasm, reinforcing SAPHA's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community. We appreciate the support of both new and familiar faces at our Chai and Chat event, and look forward to seeing many of you next year in Minneapolis!

On November 20, we solemnly observe Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR). This day serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to transphobia and violence. It's a time to reflect on the challenges faced by transgender individuals and to stand in solidarity with the transgender community.

TDoR is an opportunity to raise awareness about the discrimination and violence that transgender people often endure. It's a call to action to create a more inclusive and accepting world where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can live free from fear and discrimination. It is important to note that Asian American transgender people faced the combination of anti-transgender bias with structural and interpersonal racism.

We encourage everyone to take a moment on this day to remember those who have lost their lives and to recommit to the fight for equality, justice, and acceptance for all, regardless of their gender identity. Together, we can work towards a more compassionate and tolerant world.

Thanks for checking out SAPHA!

We are constantly finding new ways to promote the health and wellbeing of all our South Asian communities. We do this through advocacy, education and fostering meaningful partnerships in the community! Learn more about our mission or make a donation at sapha.org!

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South Asian Public Health Association