In a heartwarming display of unity and determination, people from all walks of life gathered at Wisma Sanyan in Sibu, Sarawak, on September 9th, 2023, to be part of something truly special – the “Creating Hope Through Action” event. For me, this event was a beacon of hope and enlightenment in the realm of suicide awareness and prevention. And I felt honored to share my thoughts and insights with all the amazing attendees.
Embarking on a Journey to Cultivate Hope: My Path in Counselling and Psychotherapy
I was born and raised here in Sibu, a place that will forever hold a special place in my heart. But my journey into the world of counselling and psychotherapy led me to develop my career in Singapore. Since 2011, I’ve dedicated my life to understanding and alleviating the emotional pain that so many individuals grapple with. Though I spend most of my time in Singapore now, my heart always connected to Sarawak, my homeland.
Nurturing Hope Through Roots and Values: Sibu’s Influence on My Approach to Mental Health
While Singapore became the backdrop for my professional growth, Sibu is where my roots are. It’s a place steeped in tradition, with a community that values connection and support. These values are deeply ingrained in my approach to counselling and psychotherapy, and they continue to inspire me to this day. The warmth and resilience of the people of Sibu reminded me of the importance of community, empathy, and understanding in the field of mental health.
LEAP Communication Skills: Encourage Someone to accept Professional Help
At the “Creating Hope Through Action” event, I had the privilege of taking the stage to dive deep into the transformative power of LEAP communication skills, developed by the brilliant Dr. Xavier Amador. This innovative approach to communication is all about empowering individuals and their loved ones to engage in open, empathetic, and supportive conversations about mental health struggles.
LEAP, which stands for Listen, Empathize, Agree, and Partner, provides a practical roadmap for fostering understanding and collaboration. It all begins with active listening, where we offer our full attention and non-judgmental presence to those sharing their feelings and experiences. Through genuine listening, we create a safe space where individuals feel comfortable expressing their emotions and concerns.
Empathy, the second step, involves recognizing and validating the emotions of the person in distress. It’s about saying, “I understand how you feel,” and letting them know that we recognise and respect their emotions.
Agreement doesn’t necessarily mean complete alignment with every perspective, but it seeks common ground and shared concerns. It’s about building a bridge between the individual and their loved ones, emphasizing unity rather than conflict.
Lastly, the “Partner” step underscores the importance of working together to find solutions. It signifies a commitment to supporting the individual on their journey to professional help, fostering a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility.
Igniting Hope through Timely Intervention: A Key Aspect of Mental Health Care
One of the key takeaways from my talk is the vital role that timely intervention plays in mental health care. By using LEAP communication skills, loved ones can create an environment where individuals feel understood, supported, and encouraged to seek professional help promptly. Reducing the delay in treatment can make a significant difference in an individual’s journey to recovery.
A Call to Action: Shaping a Compassionate Society in Sibu and Beyond
“Creating Hope Through Action” wasn’t just an event; it was a call to action. Together, we can shape a future where mental health is met with empathy and timely intervention, ultimately saving lives and building a more compassionate society. And Sibu, my hometown, will always have a special place in this journey of hope and healing.
Whether you are in Sibu or Singapore, you are always welcome to contact me to see if I might be able to support you as you journey forward.