OUR MISSION
The Courtyards Institute exists to confront the mental health crisis in East Asia through rigorous research, community advocacy, and targeted policy work.
By reframing the narrative and interventions around this often-overlooked global health crisis, our team of undergraduates aims to reshape how mental health is understood, discussed, and addressed.
Policy Research
The Courtyards Institute conducts extensive research into the challenges, systemic gaps, and policy interventions associated with mental health in East Asian communities. While working with journalists, lawmakers, and researchers to design / advocate for government policies that align with our mission, we also work with experts and community organizations to ensure our research reflects lived experiences. Our findings are published in comprehensive proposals and policy briefs, offering in-depth analysis to guide policy recommendations.
Media Engagement
We ensure that our research is accessible to lawmakers, researchers, and the general public for informed decision-making. Moreover, we work to bridge the information gap between mental health experts and those who shape public opinion and policy in East Asia. We collaborate closely with government officials, journalists, and healthcare practitioners, providing the resources needed for all to understand the reality of mental health challenges. By facilitating well-informed discussions, we aim to facilitate a future where mental health care is a whole-of-society priority.
Research Reports
Our in-depth research projects work to provide a comprehensive analysis of broader undercurrents through an extensive critique of mental health systems, cultural dynamics, and policy environments across East Asia. Working with research institutions, these original publications go beyond surface-level trends., and are designed to address gaps in existing knowledge.
Community Initiatives
Solving problems at the core of societies requires more than a solely top-down, policy-oriented approach. Our community initiatives support mental health and well-being through direct engagement and accessible services. We offer free English tutoring, mental health counseling, and host inclusive community events that foster connection, reduce stigma, and empower families. By meeting people where they are, we create spaces that nurture wellness, resilience, and belonging across East Asian communities.
Chapters
Our chapters, based at universities and high schools around the world, serve as local hubs for community-driven impact. These chapters manage tutoring programs, partner with local organizations, and engage directly with stakeholders to address mental health and educational needs in their surroundings. By empowering students to take initiative at the grassroots level, our chapters translate research and values into meaningful, on-the-ground action that catalyzes the next generation of mental health advocates.
Some questions we have.
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Suicide prevention funding in South Korea is rapidly increasing. Why hasn't the suicide rate plateaued?
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Has Japan over-medicalized mental health?
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How will Japan handle the rise of Hikikomori, and what are the implications on its demographic crisis?
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Does digital surveillance of mental well-being incubate self-fulfilling prophecies?
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What systems exist / should exist to support Asian LGBTQIA+ youth?
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Should Japan and Korea continue spending billions on "suicide awareness" initiatives? Do better alternatives exist?
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Are economic slowdowns causally linked to rising depression and suicide rates in Korea and Japan?
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How do we build frameworks for mental well-being in emerging Asian countries? Can East Asia build a decolonized mental health model?
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What lessons have we learned from Taiwan's progressive mental health policies?
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Are algorithmic recommendations in mental health AI tools biased towards urban and western user behaviors?
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How does gender in Asia influence mental health experiences and access to care?
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Why are suicide rates increasing for only certain groups in Japan?
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How do care systems operate in cultures valuing silent suffering? If not therapy, what do afflicted individuals turn to for support?
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Why are schools still failing to address mental health?