Alexandra Huynh ‘25

The first project I worked on was organizing a suicide prevention training, which was open to all community members. This was a 3.5 hour training, facilitated by one of our Licensed Clinical Social Workers. I created the outreach materials, managed emails to participants, and served as a community resource staff on the day of the event. To prepare for this training, I completed several mental health trainings including ASIST and Mental Health First Aid. This project would not have gotten done without me. 

The second project I worked on was the Stakeholder Engagement Event for CA's Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. This event comprised of two listening circles for Asian American youth and youth allies to understand their mental health experiences. I created and managed promotional materials, communications, and logistics. 

I also led and organized a research project on the help-seeking behaviors of Asian American youth in Sacramento, which would not have gotten done without me.

My first main learning objective was to learn about the landscape of community mental health and grassroots initiatives in Sacramento, CA within the Asian American community. I feel that I accomplished this goal through my conversations with community members and community partners at the listening circle we held. I gained a deeper appreciation for how mental health experiences can vary widely within the Asian American community. 

Additionally, I realized how well-equipped our community members are to speak about these experiences. Often times, there is a stereotype that Asian Americans have a hard time speaking about mental health, but I learned that many folks are willing and ready to have these conversations. My second objective was to learn evidence-based intervention skills for community mental health. I definitely developed these skills through the various mental health trainings I attended. In particular, I began to think a lot about suicide--how it's such a taboo topic, but it's something that touches everyone's lives. Going back to Stanford, I have a renewed motivation to raise awareness about suicide prevention. 

Finally, I aimed to reflect on my career goals and my own mental health this summer. Getting to meet so many mental healthcare providers solidified my desire to work in the medical field, serving the Asian American population. Being at home helped reconnect me to my identity and community--they are my why. I feel rejuvenated moving into this next year.