Category Archives: Mental Health

Until Now, I’ve Thought All Rapists Should Die

“How could I look at my wife and make love to her, knowing that I’ve raped a woman just like her? How could I hold my children the way I used to, knowing that I’ve killed those innocent kids back in Vietnam?”

Why Don’t You Talk About Childhood Trauma?

“Yeah. When I was about grade 4, I remember skipping school one day. It was right after their divorce. My mom was curious when the school called. I didn’t have a cellphone then, but she guessed where I could have gone and called my dad.”

Don’t Kill My Emotions. Let Me Be Negative.

“Just let me be. Am I not allowed to be angry, upset or frustrated? This is how I express myself, just like when you screamed or punched me a few times. Don’t try to kill my emotions. I don’t have to be okay.”

Those Left Behind: Why Did You Kill Yourself?

“Well, actually, it wasn’t. They’ve known her suicidal behaviour. She’s attempted twice before, and when she succeeded, it was at her aunt’s house. They thought she’d be safe with the constant watch of her aunt.”

You Don’t Need a Degree to Help

“Have you heard of the guy in Japan who opened a cafe next to the mountain cliff? He did that so he could offer coffee to those considering jumping. There are so many ways to help. You don’t need years of knowledge on cohort studies or comparative analysis to start.”

Asian Parenting: Don’t Shame Your Family. Don’t See a Counsellor.

I may never forget the awkward look on my mom’s face. It was as if I had suggested something that would put the whole family to shame. Or perhaps, that was exactly what I did.