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How can I approach mental health with my parents?

User Profile: purplemango62
purplemango62 March 29th, 2023

theyre typical asian parents and believe mental health = crazy. how to i start the conversation and explain that i need help.

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User Profile: RarelyCharlie
RarelyCharlie March 29th, 2023

@purplemango62 I suppose one way might be to frame the conversation in terms of something that your parents value. I don't know what their values are, so I can't be more specific. But, for example, if they value achievement (I'm just guessing here!) then you might try having a conversation about what you would like to achieve and the obstacles you face…without explicitly mentioning mental health at all.

And I suppose another way might be to ask your parents for advice about something specific you need help with. Again, not explicitly mentioning mental health. The key thing here is to remember what they say and repeat their words back to them, so that they feel heard.

Charlie

User Profile: lavenderLake2009
lavenderLake2009 March 29th, 2023

i don’t have advice i js relate any slight thing about mental health my mum would go mad about it. there mindsets are so annoying and after years it’s messed mine up too cause it’s what i grew up w tbh. i hope everything goes well for uuuu❤️

User Profile: Rubylistens22
Rubylistens22 April 3rd, 2023

@purplemango62

I’m so sorry that your parents aren’t the most educated on mental health… my parents are a bit like that too. Thinking of different ways you can approach them and making the topic more accessible to talk about in your home is something that’s really important. I hope they support you and know that I’m here to talk if you ever need:)

User Profile: kindEmbrace4635
kindEmbrace4635 July 2nd, 2023

@purplemango62

I know and have experienced problems with this discussion with my asian parents and family myself it isn't an easy thing. However, it has gotten better over time as I addressed and had many deep talks about mental health misconceptions and stigma. As I've noticed many Asian households are non-confrontational and/or don't know much about mental health. I would try to talk to try to start talking to them about the Model Minority Myth as it is a big reason for many Asians seeking/understanding mental health and resources. I hope this helps!