S1E48: 48| Facing the Truth

Olivia grew up in Hong Kong in a Chinese family. She realised that she suffered from anxiety and depression after she finished university. Her friends did not really understand her mental health issues and she found it difficult to manage her fluctuating emotions. Olivia developed an intense fear of failure and rejection, and was unable to do her job well. It was three or four years before she sought help and she was diagnosed as bipolar with depression and anxiety. Olivia found it very hard to accept this diagnosis and she tried to avoid the issue as she did not want to admit that she needed medication.  Eventually, she tried medication and this helped her but she still found it difficult to accept her condition as she was worried about judgment from others.  Her family was unable to accept her mental health issues as topics like this are rarely discussed in traditional Chinese families. At times she felt suicidal and this was very difficult for her to overcome. She talks about the cultural pressure that she feels to be the best and that she always wanted to be perfect. Olivia says she was forced to study hard as a child and this pressure added to her anxiety. Olivia explains how she feels mental health support could be improved in Hong Kong and she is thankful that she has found a very understanding doctor. Olivia’s mental health is an ongoing issue for her and she is bravely speaking out in the hope of helping others come to terms with their mental health struggles and she hopes they will seek the support that they need. Olivia also hopes that friends, family and colleagues will be more understanding and supportive of people who have mental health struggles.

A listener note: If you feel you need support, please visit your local GP, a counsellor or contact the Samaritans in Hong Kong on 28960000. If you live in another country, please contact your local Lifeline or Crisis Centre in your area.

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