Mental Health, Cultural Values, Social Barriers, Misconceptions, Among Topics

San Diego CA— The coronavirus pandemic is affecting everyone in new and unexpected ways. Jewish Family Service of San Diego (JFS) is here to help with a series of free virtual Community Conversations. These workshops help San Diegans conquer challenges ranging from maintaining mental health, to caring for a parent with dementia, to supporting kids while schools are closed. Using collective knowledge to learn techniques and tips, we will survive these challenging times – together.
Each conversation features panels of distinguished community leaders, doctors, clergy, educators and therapists who share their expertise. There is time in each program for participants to submit questions.
Cultural values, common misconceptions and lack of resources in Asian/Pacific Islander (API) communities can often prevent individuals facing mental health challenges from seeking support. With an increase in hate crimes against API communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, existing mental health challenges can be exacerbated.
This Community Conversation will bring together API mental health experts to discuss common mental health issues, identify the social barriers that prevent API individuals from seeking help, and offer tips on coping during the increased stress and uncertainty of our current public health crisis.
Panelists:

• Amanda Lee, Division Director of Adult/Older Adult Mental Health, Union of Pan Asian Communities (UPAC)
• Heeyoung Kim, Counseling & Treatment Center Program Manager, UPAC
• Jashneel Singh, Doctoral Student, Alliant International University
• Michelle Ly, Division Director of Children and Adolescent Mental Health, UPAC

Moderator: Gabby Masuda, Outreach Coordinator for Asian Pacific Islander Community, Jewish Family Service
Community Co-Sponsors: Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), Union of Pan Asian Communities (UPAC), Live Well San Diego County, San Diego Pride’s Queer Asian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, Desi, American (APIMEDA) Coalition and The Behavioral Health Committee of Jewish Family Service.
When: Thursday, May 21, 2020 3-4 p.m.
Where: At home with phone or internet access.
Details: These virtual conversations are FREE. Register at www.jfssd.org/communityconversations