EVENTS: Understanding & Supporting Friends with Mental Health Difficulties (Online Event)
Speaker: Charlie Ong
Date: 22 APR Thu
Time: 7:30 to 9:30pm
VENUE: ALBY Events via Zoom Online
Fee: $10
Dr. Jamie Chiu, a clinical psychologist in Hong Kong, told the story of a young man whose mental health deteriorated as a result of school demands, escalating family conflicts and persistent insomnia.
At a loss for what to do and on the verge of a breakdown, the young man reached out to his teacher to share his problems. “The teacher just looked at him, patted him on the shoulder and was like, ‘Ka yao ah ('keep going' in Cantonese). Work harder, and you’ll be fine. Just study more,’” “That really sums up how people think of mental health issues in Hong Kong,” Dr. Jamie Chiu thinks.
Are we any better in Singapore?
For too long, people with mental health difficulties have suffered in silence because of the stigma and shame. There are signs that things are changing, going by the new wave of exhibitions, campaigns and voices from different quarters. These may be proof that young Singaporeans today are tired of being silent and are ready to cry out for help. The question is “Are you ready to support a friend with mental health difficulties?”
This talk will help you gain a better understanding of common mental health issues and learn how to support a friend with mental health difficulties. You will learn a simple yet useful framework to better understand mental health and pick up an easy-to-use guideline to help you support a friend with mental health difficulties.
About the speaker
Charlie Ong enjoys his work and accepts his lot in life, believing that when people are so busy enjoying life, they will have no time to brood over the past; they will be too busy enjoying the gift from God, and God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart.
Among his many goals in life, the most important one is to see his children love God. Charlie is a Senior Counsellor at Agape Counselling Sanctuary and has over 30 years of experience working with youth and families. He is a Solution-Focused Therapist & Coach, and a Behavioural & Career Consultant.
He attends Bukit Panjang Methodist Church and has written 3 books PRAYING the PSALMS for the Half-full Soul, THE DEVIL GOES FOR LIFE COACHING.and his latest book WONDERFULLY ALIVE - Holistic Insights for your Health & Happiness.