Content warning: This article contains references to suicide. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please, contact your physician, go to your local ER, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255), or message the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Both programs provide free, confidential support 24/7.

I was almost part of a silent epidemic. This is my story — and the story of too many others.

Suicide is the leading cause of death among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) youth. This statistic weighs heavily on my heart because it reflects a tragic reality: too many young people feel unseen, unheard, and unvalued. But this isn’t a story of loss. It’s a story of connection.

I grew up in the San Gabriel Valley, just east of Los Angeles, in a community with more Asian Americans than in 42 states combined. Surrounded by the Asian diaspora, I often felt connected to my heritage. But beneath this, I also carried feelings of isolation and worthlessness. For years, I kept these struggles to myself, believing I was alone in my pain.

At the age of 13, I reached a breaking point. I felt like I didn’t belong, like I didn’t matter — so I tried to end it all. The cruelty of my bullies and the silence of those around me felt unbearable. It almost cost me everything. But in that darkness, I found a flicker of light. With the guidance of a mentor, I discovered the strength to embrace vulnerability and a deep love for myself that had always been there.

What I learned — and continue to learn — is that my pain wasn’t mine alone. Too many young people in our community are carrying that same burden, silenced by the stigma surrounding mental health. I knew I couldn’t stay silent any longer. I had to act. That’s why I co-founded Asian Girls Ignite (AGI), a Colorado nonprofit focused on empowering AANHPI girls and gender-expansive youth through culturally responsive and social-emotional learning programs. We are here to rewrite the narrative — transforming silence into conversation and isolation into connection.

Challenging Stigma by Building Courage and Community

In our community, mental health struggles are often swept under the rug, hidden behind a veil of shame. “Saving face” becomes more important than confronting our emotions, and the idea of seeking help can feel like a weakness. As a young person, I was taught to be strong by enduring hardship in silence. But strength isn’t about suffering alone. True strength comes when we acknowledge our pain and seek the help we need.

Breaking this silence is not easy, but it is essential. It’s about replacing shame with understanding and silence with open conversations. These conversations need to start in our homes and extend to our schools and communities. When we speak openly about mental health challenges, we send a powerful message: You are not alone. Normalizing these conversations helps youth see that their struggles are part of a shared human experience, not a personal failing. 

At AGI, we’re creating spaces where young people can express themselves freely, without fear of judgment. We’re making it OK to be vulnerable and to talk about our mental health. Every conversation, every brave act of reaching out, creates a ripple effect. And as we challenge the stigma, we lay the foundation for a future where mental health is prioritized.

Empowering Youth Through AGI’s Preventative Programs

While we continue to challenge the stigma, we must also create supportive environments where youth can thrive long before they reach a crisis point. At AGI, we offer programs focused on identity affirmation, mentorship, and leadership development. These programs give our students the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and a sense of purpose.

Mental health struggles don’t happen in a vacuum. They stem from isolation and emotional pain that is left unaddressed. By proactively addressing these issues early, we create a strong foundation for mental well-being. Our programs teach students to recognize their emotions and build healthy coping skills.

“I used to feel like my Asian identity wasn’t something to celebrate,” shared Sarah, an AGI high school student. “But after hearing from the [AANHPI] women and other girls in the program, I realized my story matters too. It’s amazing to be around people who just get me.”

Through guided activities and reflection, our students explore their identity and gain the confidence to celebrate who they are. “Before AGI, I didn’t know how to celebrate myself,” said Anna, an AGI middle schooler. “Now, I cherish myself.”

This affirmation of identity is essential to building pride and resilience. It’s about helping young people understand that their cultural heritage is not a burden — it is their strength.

The Power of Connection: Strength in Shared Experiences

At the heart of AGI’s work is the belief that connection is transformative. When we connect young people with role models with similar backgrounds, we empower them to see themselves in the stories of growth and grit. These mentors offer more than advice — they offer inspiration through real-life examples of overcoming adversity.

Take Penelope, a transnational adoptee who joined AGI in middle school. At first, Penelope struggled to connect with their Asian background. But through mentorship and friendship, they transformed. Today, Penelope is not only thriving in school, but they’ve also founded an AANHPI affinity group for high school students across Colorado. This transformation wasn’t just about what Penelope accomplished — it was a testament to the inner work they dedicated to growing into their full self, supported by a community that believed in them every step of the way.

Research shows that a sense of belonging — being part of a community that sees and values you — is crucial for mental health. For AANHPI youth, often underrepresented and misunderstood, this sense of belonging is vital. It doesn’t just help individuals; it strengthens entire communities. When one person feels seen, they become a beacon for others.

An Invitation to Build a Brighter Future

Mental health is not a journey we take alone. If you’re struggling, seek the support you deserve. Reach out to a trusted friend or a counselor. There is always someone ready to listen, ready to help.

At Asian Girls Ignite, we’re committed to creating a world where every AANHPI girl and gender-expansive youth feels seen, heard, and valued. You can be part of this movement. By simply being there for someone who needs you, amplifying the conversation about mental health, or supporting organizations like AGI, you are creating a world where every young person has the chance to thrive.

Let’s work together to ensure that no one feels invisible, and that every story has the chance to shine. Together, we can be the generation that redefines what it means to truly support one another.