In today’s fast-paced world, managing stress can feel like an impossible task, especially for Overseas Filipinos balancing work, family, and personal struggles. Whether you’re in search of a Filipino counsellor and therapist or simply need community support, it’s important to remember that help is always available. As we observe World Mental Health Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of mental health and how we can navigate stress together.
Understanding Stress in a Fast-Paced World
Living abroad as an Overseas Filipino comes with unique challenges, from being far from family to adapting to a different work environment and cultural expectations. Stress can manifest in many ways, such as feeling constantly tired, overwhelmed, or irritable. Recognising these signs early is key to managing stress effectively. Here’s how you can start:
Pause and Breathe: When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. Taking a moment to focus on your breathing can help you ground yourself. Try this: inhale deeply for four seconds, hold for four, and exhale for four. Repeat this a few times. You’ll notice a calming effect as your body and mind slow down, reducing anxiety in the moment.
Set Boundaries: Overseas Filipinos often feel pressured to take on extra work or responsibilities, especially if they are supporting families back home. But constantly saying “yes” can lead to burnout. Setting healthy boundaries means politely declining tasks that overload you, prioritising rest, and not being afraid to say “no” when your mental health is at risk. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Prioritise Self-Care: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Whether it’s reading a book, cooking your favorite meal, or even taking a short walk, these moments of “me time” allow you to recharge. Make self-care part of your daily routine, even if it’s just 15 minutes, and treat it as a non-negotiable part of your schedule. This will help you build resilience against daily stresses.
Where to Get Help: Finding a Filipino Counsellor and Therapist
When stress becomes too much to handle on your own, seeking professional help is one of the best decisions you can make. However, it can be hard to find a therapist who understands your unique cultural background as an Overseas Filipino. This is where Pinoy Therapy comes in.
Filipino Counsellor and Therapist: Having someone who speaks your language and understands your cultural context can make a huge difference in your therapeutic experience. Filipino therapists can offer culturally relevant advice and empathy that you might not find elsewhere. They understand the challenges of being an Overseas Filipino, such as homesickness, family obligations, and the pressure to succeed.
How to Reach Out: Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to seek help. If you’re experiencing prolonged periods of stress, anxiety, or sadness, visiting Pinoy Therapy is a great first step. This platform connects you with licensed Filipino counsellors and therapists, who offer virtual sessions to help you work through your concerns from the comfort of your own home. Their culturally sensitive approach makes it easier to open up and find the support you need.
The Importance of Community Support
One of the strengths of Filipino culture is the deep sense of community and connection. Whether you’re halfway across the world or just a city away, staying connected with your family, friends, and social networks plays a vital role in your mental health. Here’s how you can maintain and lean on your community:
Stay Connected: In a world where technology allows us to be constantly in touch, use it to your advantage. Schedule regular video calls or chats with loved ones back home, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Hearing a familiar voice, seeing their faces, and sharing stories can reduce feelings of isolation, boost your mood, and give you a sense of belonging even from afar.
Join Kabayan Groups: Being surrounded by people who share similar experiences can be incredibly comforting. Look for Filipino community groups online or in your local area. Many cities have organisations for Overseas Filipinos, where you can meet others, share stories, and offer support. These groups often host events, gatherings, and forums to help Filipinos connect and feel less alone.
Stay Active in Social Networks: Social media platforms like Facebook often have Kabayan groups where Overseas Filipinos share their experiences, ask for advice, or simply chat. Engaging in these groups can help you find comfort in shared experiences and remind you that you are not alone in your journey.
How to Support Friends and Family Struggling with Mental Health
If you know a loved one who is struggling with their mental health, you may wonder how best to help them. While it’s important to offer support, it’s also crucial to respect their space and needs. Here’s how you can provide compassionate support:
Be a Good Listener: Often, people facing mental health challenges don’t need advice—they need someone to listen. Be patient, give them the time to share their thoughts without interrupting, and resist the urge to offer solutions. Instead, offer a listening ear and validate their feelings by saying things like, “I’m here for you” or “That sounds really tough.” Sometimes, knowing someone cares is enough to lift their spirits.
Encourage Professional Help: If you feel that your loved one is struggling more than they can handle, gently encourage them to seek professional help. Explain that talking to a Filipino counsellor or therapist who understands their background can make a significant difference. Assure them that seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness but a step toward healing.
Check In Regularly: Mental health struggles don’t go away overnight, so keep checking in on your loved ones. A simple text asking “How are you feeling today?” shows them that you care and reminds them that they are not alone in their journey. Small, consistent gestures of kindness can be more impactful than you might think.
Conclusion: We’re in This Together, Kabayan
As we recognise World Mental Health Day, let’s remind ourselves and each other that seeking help is a sign of strength. Whether you’re facing stress from living abroad or supporting a loved one in their mental health journey, remember that you are never alone. With the support of your family, friends, and resources like Pinoy Therapy, there’s always a path forward.
No matter where you are in the world, as a Kababayan, you are part of a global family that understands and cares. So, take a deep breath, reach out when you need to, and know that we’re all in this together, one step at a time.
