Eric Nam 2025: Breaking Barriers in Mental Health Awareness and Support

Celebrated by Verywell Mind in 2024

K-pop’s global influence continues to rise, reshaping cultural narratives and empowering Asian American communities. Leading this transformative wave is Eric Nam, a dynamic singer, songwriter, and television host with over a decade of experience in South Korea’s entertainment scene.

Eric Nam hosts the top-rated K-pop podcast, “Daebak Show,” where he openly addresses mental health, cultural identity, and personal development. Alongside his brothers, he co-founded DIVE Studios, a platform dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between K-pop fans and the industry. In 2021, they launched Mindset, a groundbreaking daily self-care app designed to enhance mental wellness through accessible and engaging content.

Mental Health Challenges Among Asian Americans

Studies reveal that while 17.3% of Asian Americans experience psychiatric disorders during their lifetime, they are significantly less likely—three times less—than White Americans to seek mental health services. Alarmingly, suicide remains the leading cause of death among Asian/Pacific Islanders aged 15 to 24, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and support.

Immediate Crisis Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for confidential assistance from trained counselors. In emergencies, dial 911 immediately. Additional resources are available through the National Helpline Database.

Addressing Men’s Mental Health Stigma

Cultural pressures and social expectations often discourage men, especially Asian American males, from seeking therapy or discussing mental health openly. Data from 2019 indicates that Asian American boys in high school are 30% more likely to contemplate suicide than their non-Hispanic White peers.

Eric Nam underscores that mental health is foundational to every aspect of life—impacting work, relationships, and community. He advocates for proactive mental self-care, equating its importance to physical health routines, emphasizing that there should be no shame in nurturing emotional and psychological well-being.

Strengthening Family Bonds Through Honest Dialogue

Asian cultural norms often make emotional expression and conversations about mental illness challenging. Eric Nam’s journey to foster openness within his family involved persistent effort, leading to a supportive environment built on honesty. He credits his parents and brothers as vital pillars in his mental health journey.

Nam shares, “Initiating open conversations was initially uncomfortable, but it paved the way for deeper connections and mutual care. Having loved ones as trusted advisors and listeners is invaluable.”

K-pop’s Role in Shaping Mental Health Perspectives

For many Asian Americans who grew up in the '80s and '90s, representation in mainstream music was scarce. The rise of K-pop has transformed this landscape, providing visibility and challenging stereotypes. Research shows that young K-pop fans experience improved quality of life, citing enhanced physical, psychological, social, and environmental well-being.

Eric Nam’s music often explores themes of resilience and self-acceptance, resonating deeply with fans and fostering a sense of understanding and comfort.

He notes, “Music serves as a powerful platform to normalize mental health conversations, and I’m heartened to see growing openness across industries and cultures.”

Introducing the Mindset App: Your Daily Mental Wellness Companion

Mindset is a user-friendly app designed to simplify mental health care through daily practices such as guided meditations, sleep stories, journaling prompts, and breathing exercises. Featuring expert-led content on stress, depression, self-esteem, and more, it offers a holistic approach to emotional well-being.

Each day begins with a “Daily Mindset” episode, helping users cultivate positivity in just five minutes. The app includes exclusive audio from celebrities like Seventeen members, Epik High’s Tablo, Catriona Gray, and Julia Michaels, who share personal mental health stories and self-care insights.

Eric Nam states, “Our mission with Mindset is to inspire openness and honesty about mental health, supported by influential voices sharing their journeys to encourage and comfort our community.”

Through his multifaceted efforts, Eric Nam is reshaping mental health awareness, making it more accessible and relatable to diverse audiences, especially the younger generation.

Additional Resources and References

• Spencer MS et al., Am J Public Health, 2010
• Office of Minority Health, Mental and Behavioral Health Data
• Thapa P et al., Behavioral Sciences, 2015
• Safithri NA et al., TICASH 2019 Conference Proceedings

Article by Katharine Chan, MSc, BSc, PMP – Author and healthcare professional with over 15 years of experience in mental health and wellness.

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