About

Our Mission

Our initiative was created to bridge the gaps in mental health awareness, access, and culturally relevant support for youth in San Diego. Too many young people face depression, anxiety, and overwhelming pressures in silence without knowing where to turn for help.

 

We believe that no one should have to face those struggles alone. Through community collaboration, education, and youth empowerment, we’re building a foundation where every young person can find the care, understanding, and resources they need to thrive.

 

At its heart, this work is about more than mental health. It’s about creating a bridge to wellness, hope, and opportunity for the next generation.

Viet Mental Health Logo

Core Values

Educate Youth & Families

Providing mental health resources and coping strategies to build resilience

Connect Community Partners

Strengthening networks for accessible, culturally relevant care

Empower Young Leaders

Encouraging youth to share their voices and build resilience

Reduce Stigma

Opening dialogue and normalizing conversations around mental health

The Urgency Behind Our Work

#1

Leading Cause of Death

Suicide is the top cause of death among AANHPI youth (ages 15-24) in California.

69.5%

Untreated

Nearly 7 in 10 AANHPI youth with a major depressive episode receive no mental health care, leaving an estimated 287,000 young people untreated each year.

9%

Representation in Care

Despite making up greater than 16% of California’s population, only 9% of youth-focused mental healthcare providers are AANHPI.

Source: San Diego Foundation, State of San Diego Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians & Pacific Islanders Report (December 2024)

Our Team

Tri Lưu

Committee Chair

Jenn Nguyen

Vice Chair

Alan Trần

Finance & Logistics

Tri Nguyen

Curriculum & Professional Outreach

Kendra Nguyen

Project Manager

Tiffany Lưu

Social Media

Jessica Liyanage

Scholarship Coordinator

Quyên Lý

Translation & Cultural Authenticity

Quân Tôn

Translation & Cultural Authenticity

Anna Le

Website Designer

Carina Guevara

Website Designer

Peter Pham-Tran

Website Designer

Khiêm Phạm

Website Builder

A Story of Hope and Resilience:
Jenn Nguyen's Testimony

At age 20, Jenn survived a suicide attempt that changed her perspective on life forever. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope for youth struggling with depression and anxiety in our community.

“I want every young person to know that your darkest moment doesn’t define your future. There is help, there is hope, and there is a community that cares about you.”

Jenn’s journey from crisis to advocacy exemplifies why this initiative matters. Her courage to share her story helps break down the walls of silence and shame that prevent too many young people from seeking help. 

Your story matters. Your voice can save lives. You are not alone.