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South Asian Mental Health, Depression, Women of Color, Stigma, Hidden Struggles, Mental Health Awareness, Cultural Expectations
đź’¬ “You don’t look depressed.” A phrase that countless South Asian women have heard — and internalized. In a culture that prides itself on strength, sacrifice, and the appearance of perfection, the pain beneath the surface often goes unseen, unheard, and unspoken. 🎠The Mask of the “Good Daughter” From a young age, South Asian women are taught to suppress discomfort and prioritize others. We are raised to be obedient daughters, loyal wives, and nurturing mothers — roles that rarely leave room for emotional vulnerability. We smile through breakdowns. We host gatherings while battling anxiety. We perform perfection, even when we’re unraveling inside. Depression doesn’t “look” a certain way —…