Tang Scholarship Program

About the Program

Common mental disorders (CMDs) like depression and anxiety are major global health concerns. Most people with CMDs do not receive care, especially in Chinese and Chinese American communities, where stigma, low mental health literacy, and limited access create serious barriers.

Non-drug therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, acupuncture, and mind-body practices are effective, culturally acceptable options. These treatments are suitable for mild to moderate CMDs and can help reduce stigma by avoiding mental health labels.

This three-year project aims to improve access to non-drug mental health services for Chinese populations in Los Angeles and Shanghai. Led by UCLA, Fudan University, and Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the program will train 18 Tang Scholars, 100 students, and 60 community clinicians through an online course and expert mentorship.

Under the guidance of expert faculty teams, trainees will:

1. Develop and implement culturally tailored non-drug mental health services at community health sites (including 25 community health service centers in Shanghai and the Chinatown Service Center in Los Angeles);
2. Promote awareness and improve access to these services through community outreach and patient/family education;
3. Strengthen institutional partnerships to support the long-term dissemination of best practices.

Together, these trainees will serve as catalysts for transforming community-based mental health systems and expanding access to stigma-free, culturally relevant care for Chinese populations.

Multidisciplinary Working Team