MIL OSI – Source: Mental Health Foundation – Press Release/Statement
Headline: Participants reflect on this year's Kai Xin Xing Dong campaign on self-stigma
Speaking openly about an experience of mental illness can be a scary prospect for people of all ages and from all walks of life. For people in the Chinese community, this can be even more nerve-wracking because of the stigma associated with having a mental health issue.
For this year’s Kai Xin Xing Dong (KXXD) project, seven people were interviewed about their experience of self-stigma and how this has affected their recovery from mental illness. Three participants were given a pseudonym because they were worried about what other people might think of them, and another kept her identity private because of her experience of rape.
The remaining participants – Stephen Chu, Debbie Siau and Jason Chow – openly shared their stories in the Chinese Herald and KXXD website for our project, Positive Energy. In this article, we ask them what it was like to publicly disclose their mental illness, and what feedback they have had from friends, family and the community.
Giving others confidence
Stephen, a commercial cleaner based in Mt Albert, says he didn’t mind talking about his diagnosis of bipolar disorder, but after the story was published he started to feel worried.
“Two of my friends told me I would be a star. The anxious and worried mood came out, but I controlled it by talking to my elder sister.
“She gave me the advice to calm down and that talking about it is a good thing for others who have the illness, so they can have the same confidence.”
The 57-year-old, who is originally from Hong Kong, is grateful for the ongoing support he receives from his friends and family.
“I told my friends about the story in the Chinese Herald. They said, ‘we don’t care. We have been friends for more than 10 years’. Basically, I’m very lucky.”
Speaking out good for mental health
Debbie, who also has experience of bipolar disorder, says speaking up about her mental illness has been good for her mental health.
“Taking part in this project is part of my wellness journey,” she says. “It could have been a difficult decision to take part, but I am blessed with the support of my husband and family.”
The Manurewa artist and consumer advocate, who comes from Malaysia, has received plenty of positive feedback in response to her article.
She says many people praised her for being “brave and courageous” and asked for her permission to share the story with others.
“They said that what I am doing is meaningful and significant. A church leader also said I am spreading good seeds that make a good impact in the community. It is very encouraging.”
Participation an easy decision
Like Debbie, engineer Jason Chow didn’t have to think too hard about taking part in the KXXD project.
“At the bottom of my heart, perhaps I still ask the question ‘why’ and I’m a little nervous that people will discriminate, but it is more important to help others,” he says. “How other people think is beyond my control anyway.”
The feedback Jason, who is originally from Hong Kong, has received about his involvement in the Positive Energy project has been positive.
“A few people saw my article in the Auckland City Harbour News and congratulated me for being brave and taking part. I shared it on Facebook and some friends saw it and said ‘well done’ too.”
The 31-year-old believes it’s good for people to be honest about their experience of mental illness because it raises awareness and gives other people the opportunity to help.
“The more people know about it and become aware of it, the more support you get from others.”
We’d love to hear your feedback on this year’s Positive Energy campaign. If you would like to comment, please email your thoughts to kaixinxingdong “at” mentalhealth.org.nz
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