I had the privilege of leading a workshop for a support group organized by the Pathways Clubhouse Society of Richmond today. This group serves both Cantonese and Mandarin-speaking individuals who are caregivers or coping with depression and other mental health challenges. It was a rewarding experience to share insights with everyone, and I also had the opportunity to participate in the Cantonese discussion group afterwards.

During the workshop, I opened up about my personal journey with depression. I view myself as a “wounded healer”—someone who has faced pain and is now eager to walk alongside others on their healing journeys. I shared the challenges I encountered and the strategies I found helpful in coping with these difficulties.

Recognizing the vital role that caregivers—such as parents, spouses, and family members—play in this process is essential. I emphasized the type of support I need from caregivers, which goes beyond practical assistance to include emotional and spiritual guidance. Caregivers often want to help, but they may struggle to understand how to provide the most effective support without unintentionally adding to the burden. By sharing my needs with the group, I hope to foster a deeper sense of respect and connection between caregivers and those they support.

Equally important is the acknowledgment that caregivers need support, rest, and understanding as well. The responsibilities they carry can be overwhelming, making it easy for them to neglect their own well-being while caring for others. It’s crucial that we create spaces for caregivers where they can share their struggles and receive the support they need to continue their important work without feeling overwhelmed. By cultivating an environment that recognizes the needs of both individuals facing challenges and their caregivers, we can strengthen our community bonds.

The group discussions, particularly in the Cantonese session, were both enlightening and encouraging. Many participants voiced their feelings of isolation, emotional exhaustion, and a desire for support. This highlights the need for greater community understanding about how to respond effectively to both individuals and caregivers. Well-meaning advice such as “Just think positively” can be counterproductive, so it is important to promote compassionate dialogue that avoids inadvertently deepening anyone’s pain.

This experience has reinforced the importance of fostering empathy, patience, and awareness as we offer support. We need to move beyond merely discussing mental health issues and work towards building a culture of understanding and compassion. Our goal is to create inclusive spaces where individuals and caregivers can openly discuss their challenges, share their experiences, and receive the support they truly need without fear of judgment.

As we continued our conversations, it became clear that emotional connection and spiritual support are just as important as practical strategies for managing mental health. It was uplifting to witness the group coming together to encourage one another and share their experiences. I feel grateful to be part of this process and eager to continue supporting everyone involved.

As we move forward, I remain committed to nurturing this community for both those facing depression and their caregivers. I look forward to continuing this journey of healing together, building spaces where people can have open conversations about their struggles, share their stories, and collectively find the support necessary for growth and well-being.