China’s growing awareness of mental health among parents

A 51-year-old Shanghai-based therapist who has been practising for 15 years, recalled why he decided to specialize in counselling this group.

After the parents sent their children here, they hoped that I could help counsel their children, said Mr Zhang, general manager of Bethesda Psychological Support and Counselling Center.

They didn't realize that many of their children's problems were related to family education and the family environment. After noticing that many of the issues faced by adults he had counselled stemmed from their childhood, Mr Zhang stuck with his decision. He noted that today's societal values are more diverse than before.

He said it has been difficult to adapt to the fact that many youth are overwhelmed because things are developing too quickly.

The number of clients under him has more than tripled from six years ago. He counsels ranging from kindergarten-going three-year-olds to teenagers and young working adults.

The increase in awareness is due to the COVID - 19 pandemic, according to experts.

In recent years, the Chinese government has placed more emphasis on the mental health of young people.

According to the Healthy China campaign, the aim is to ensure that 80 per cent of people suffering from depression have access to treatment.

By the year, at least 80 per cent of primary and secondary schools will have mental health personnel.

This has been very helpful for parents to change their understanding, said Mr Zhang.

More mental health issues have been brought to the fore by the COVID 19 pandemic.

This epidemic is a flurry, said Mr Zhang.