The persona of a competent person with smiling depression

We were shocked to see someone who suddenly committed suicide without a sign. Usually, these people were always appearing cheerful, sociable and capable in front of others. However, underlying their persona, they may be depressed, anxious, or having negative cognitions about self and others. A client of mine recently found out the betrayal of one …

Taking care of our Happy Inner Child in 2024

Happy New Year!  In the beginning of 2024, you may have new plans to achieve in study or work.  Looking back 2023, are we finding ourselves busy with study or work and not having enough fun and play?  2023 is a special year to many people as this was the first year of re-opening after …

Two important tips for making new year resolution for 2024

It is beyond dispute that many people are experiencing a lot of uncertainty and sufferings in 2023.  Usually, at the end of the year, we hope for better and happier life in the coming new year.  However, many people project that the world will continue to be chaotic and difficult in 2024.  Given these predictions, …

If you may be alone in this Christmas, cultivating positive solitude through mindfulness

Christmas is usually a time for reunion with family members and friends.  Most people look forward to parties and gatherings for socializing and sharing of their happy moments.  However, it is also common for some people to be alone during Christmas holiday due to various reasons.  With all the commercials and posting on social media, …

Before judging, let us understand more about the impact of individual differences and environmental influences on one’s mental health

Very often, many clients asked me that given the same family environment in their childhood with their siblings, why not all siblings in the same family suffer from the same mental disorders?  Are they weaker or having more defects?  In our culture, comparison with peers is very common and we are programed to compare with …

Vulnerability is not weakness.  On the contrary, opening up to vulnerability makes us more grounded and solid.

Very often, when we face failure or setback, we heard our close ones telling us to be strong and tough.  When a lady found out her husband had extra-marital affair, her female friends adviced her to stay strong and to separate with her husband.  When a gentleman lost a promotion opportunity, his close friends suggested …