Masked Feelings in Filipinx American Youth

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Smiles can sometimes mask painful feelings and emotions. A Filipinx youth made this mask with one side representing what they don’t typically share with the world, and the other displaying how they are perceived on the outside. Smiling depression is a very real concern among Filipinx Americans who may not seem outwardly depressed, but repress internal symptoms of sadness or grief. Some studies have indicated that Filipinx Americans have higher prevalence of depression than the general American population and that rates of suicide ideation is double in Filipinx American youth than the general American population.  Left untreated, depression can lead to more serious health problems and even suicide. #BeThe1To reach out to Filipinx and other youth who may be hiding their signs and symptoms of emotional pain and possibly suicide. #SMCPrevention

To learn how to promote mental wellness in the Filipino community visit, www.smchealth.org/fmhi.

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis, call the StarVista Crisis Hotline 650-579-0350 (1-800-273-8255).

For more information on how to help a loved one who may be at risk of suicide, visit www.suicideispreventable.org.

For information on San Mateo County suicide prevention resources, visit www.smchealth.org/suicideprevention.

Written by Sylvia Tang