Go beyond the stats
This is your hub for our ongoing series of community-focused briefs, each spotlighting the mental health needs and strengths of diverse Youth and Young Adults of Color populations.
Please check out our full State of Mental Health of Youth and Young Adults of Color Report, too. Check it out.
Power and Presence: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Black/African American and Young Adults
This brief highlights key findings from the 2025 State of Mental Health of Youth and Young Adults of Color (SOMHYOC), centering the lived experiences of nearly 1,500 Black/African American youth and young adults across the U.S. It examines rates of anxiety, depression, suicide risk, racial trauma, and unmet mental health needs—while also uplifting powerful protective factors such as hope, resilience, and cultural strength. Rooted in equity and lived experience, the brief takes an honest look at the forces shaping mental health today and amplifies the voices of Black/African American youth and young adults.
DIVERSE AND DYNAMIC: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Biracial/Multiracial Youth and Young Adults
In this rare collection of data from Biracial and Multiracial youth, we get an intimate look at their unique mental health challenges. This brief sheds light on their experience with identity invalidation and discrimination — leading to anxiety and depression. Despite these struggles, many remain hopeful about their future and showcase resilience and cultural strength. The AAKOMA Project’s groundbreaking research amplifies Biracial and Multiracial stories and advocates for culturally responsive mental health care.
Sacred Steps Forward: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Native American/Indigenous Youth and Young Adults
Native American/Indigenous youth and young adults shared vital insights with us about their mental health, identity, and daily experiences. This brief highlights both the significant challenges many are navigating—including high rates of anxiety, depression, and experiences of not belonging—as well as the powerful cultural strengths, hope, and community connection that continue to sustain them. Sacred Steps Forward honors the right of Native American/Indigenous youth to be seen and supported fully.
Grounded and Growing: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Latino/é Youth & Young Adults
Latino/é youth and young adults face high rates of anxiety and depression, alongside unique challenges tied to racism, immigration, and belonging. Nearly half reported considering suicide in the past year, yet many also shared resilience through cultural identity, activism, and strong community bonds. This brief highlights urgent mental health needs while honoring the strengths that help Latino/é young people navigate complex realities.
Held and Heard: Resilience & Support Among Youth and Young Adults of Color
This AAKOMA Project brief explores how social support impacts the mental health of intersectional YYAC across the U.S. Drawing from responses from over 8,600 youth, findings show that more than 60% of participants have at least one person they can rely on for support—with friends and caregivers being the most commonly identified sources. This report highlights the protective role of support networks in building resilience, navigating mental health challenges, and mitigating the effects of identity-based traumas like racism and homophobia. It underscores the importance of culturally responsive and community-rooted interventions to strengthen these support systems and empower youth to thrive.
Anchored in Identity: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in LGBTQIA+ Youth and Young Adults of Color
Anchored in Identity explores the mental health realities of over 3,800 LGBTQIA+ Youth and Young Adults of Color, including almost 1,200 Transgender, Nonbinary and Genderqueer YYAC. It reveals urgent data on anxiety, depression, identity-based discrimination, and the strength of community. This is definitely essential reading for anyone who recognizes the importance of affirming, culturally relevant care.
Roots and Resilience: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Arab/MENA Youth and Young Adults
Amid rising anxiety, depression, and online hate, Arab/MENA youth fight for healing, hope, and visibility in a world that often overlooks their struggles. Check out this Brief from the 2025 State of Mental Health of Youth and Young Adults of Color Study.
Unapologetically Us: An AAKOMA Project Brief on Mental Health in Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Youth and Young Adults
Download this Brief to explore what AANHPI Youth and Young Adults are facing when it comes to their mental health, including anxiety, depression, and feeling disconnected. Despite the challenges, though, many still feel hopeful. This Brief is informed by the groundbreaking 2025 State of Mental Health of Youth and Young Adults of Color Study.
