A scoping review of mental health and discrimination of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated anti-Asian discrimination in the United States. Here we reviewed 59 empirical studies published between January 2020 and March 2023 that examined COVID-19-related racism and mental health outcomes on US Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Studies used different discrimination measures and were mostly cross-sectional, limiting comparability and assessment of long-term impact. Few studies (10%) examined the impact of discrimination on children. We also engaged 27 stakeholders (researchers, service providers, educators and advocates) to contextualize the findings and recommend next steps. Stakeholders acknowledge that increased media attention has led to a recognition of anti-Asian discrimination, but society continues to dismiss its effects. Thus, calls are made for more funding to thoroughly assess Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders’ experiences of discrimination. Additionally, stakeholders urged service providers to practice cultural humility and educators to promote a safer school climate that acknowledges the disservice of the view that Asians are a model minority.