APA Condemns Violence Against Asian Americans in Georgia

In response to the shooting of eight people, including six women of Asian descent, at spas in Georgia on Tuesday, APA issued astatement condemning the act and expressing support for Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.“This year has seen a significant increase in racism and xenophobia against Asian Americans, and it is unacceptable and harmful,” said APA President Jeffrey Geller, M.D., M.P.H., in a media release. “This unspeakable tragedy can cause further fear for the AAPI [Asian American and Pacific Islan der] community, which has endured so much already. We send our condolences to the victims’ families and friends, and others who knew them.”“The tragedy that occurred in Georgia is becoming far too familiar,” said APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A., in the release. “We must be mindful that the mental health impacts of mass shootings are far reaching, touching families, communities, and the nation as a whole. If you are struggling to cope with these traumatic events, please reach out to family or friends for support. If you are overwhelmed, seek help from a psychiatrist or your primary care provider.”There has been a well-documented uptick in hate crimes against Asian American and Pacific Islander communities since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly 3,800 incidents of harassment, discrimination, or violence against these communities occurred between March 19, 2020, and Feb. 28, 2021, according to areport released bySto...
Source: Psychiatr News - Category: Psychiatry Tags: APA Asian American barriers to care bigotry discrimination harassment Jeffrey Geller mental health care Pacific Islander Saul Levin shooting violence xenophobia Source Type: research