Discussion Guide

I. About Asian American Mental Health & Cultural Context

A. Culture, Stigma, and Silence

• Why is mental illness often considered private or shameful in many Asian American families?
• How do concepts like “saving face” shape the way people in the film respond to mental health challenges?

B. The Model Minority Myth

• What is the Model Minority Myth?
• How does pressure to excel academically or professionally contribute to stress, isolation, or hidden struggles?
• How do you think the Model Minority Myth affects how Asian Americans are treated by the broader public?

C. Identity and Belonging

• Japneet recounts being racially targeted by bullies post-9/11. How did that affect his sense of self and safety?
• Dr. Justin Chen introduces the concept of a ‘lunchbox moment’: when someone is shamed or mocked for the cultural food they bring to school, making them feel “othered” because of their race or ethnicity. Have you ever experienced or witnessed a ‘lunchbox moment’? How did it impact you?
• Think back to the story of the Korean American newscaster, Michelle Li. What does the racist voicemail she received suggest about how society sometimes responds when Asian Americans express their cultural identity?

II. About the Film: Stories & Themes

D. Mental Health Experiences

• What were some of the warning signs that Sandy’s mental health was declining?
• How did Irene’s mental health struggles affect her mom, Elaine?
• What proactive steps did Gurbinder take when he was struggling? What impact did that have?
• How do younger voices like Irene, Sandy, and Japneet articulate their struggles differently from their parents?

III. Reflections & Moving Forward

E. Personal Reflection

• What moment in the film stayed with you the most, and why?
• If you could ask one interviewee a follow-up question, who would it be, and what would you want to know?
• Did the film challenge or expand your understanding of Asian American mental health?

F. Community & Action

• What can families or communities do to reduce silence and stigma?
• Regarding struggles with mental illness being sometimes seen as “being weak”, how do we draw a line between being strong and resilient and being responsive and sensitive to vulnerability?
• What are some of the systemic barriers to getting proper mental health care mentioned in the film? Can you think of any barriers that exist in your own community?
• After watching Silent War, what is one conversation you feel more prepared to have?