Herald Malaysia
SHAH ALAM – The Church of Divine Mercy hosted a mental health awareness event on Oct 11, aimed at fostering community support and improving access to services during times of crisis and emergency.
Organised by the Archdiocesan Mental Health Ministry (AMHM) in collaboration with HELP University, the event brought together Church leaders, mental health professionals, and parishioners for a day of learning, reflection, and dialogue under the theme Community: Supporting Mental Wellbeing Together.
The program emphasised recognising mental health as part of holistic well-being, particularly in the wake of recent natural disasters that have affected many communities. Through talks, workshops, and interactive booths, participants explored how emotional support can be extended not only through professional services but also through daily acts of compassion within the community.
The event began with a prayer led by Archbishop Julian Leow, who reminded participants that “mental health is not an isolated issue but part of how we live, relate, and care for one another.” His message invited all to view mental well-being as a shared responsibility rather than a private struggle.
Archbishop Julian was joined by Fr Philip Chua, ecclesiastical assistant of the AMHM, and Dr Gerard Louis, president of HELP Education Group, underscoring close collaboration between faith communities and mental health professionals.
Acknowledging the emotional aftermath of recent floods and tremors across the peninsula, speakers noted that while physical rebuilding often begins quickly, emotional healing takes time. “Homes can be rebuilt, but peace of mind takes longer to restore,” one speaker said, urging communities to respond with understanding and compassion.
Clinical psychologist Kelly Phang led the first session, addressing common misconceptions about mental health. She reminded participants that mental well-being encompasses daily experiences of stress, loss, and fatigue, not just diagnosed conditions. She emphasised that care often begins with simple acts of listening without judgment — a message that deeply resonated with the audience.
Subsequent workshops explored mental health in specific contexts — youth, family, and working adults.
? Jeremiah Liew, counsellor and lecturer at HELP University, discussed self-resilience and identity among youth, joined by Luisa Margareta G, a Master of Counselling intern, who delivered the session in Malay to promote inclusivity.
? Esther Chu, Head of the Centre for Psychological and Counselling Services at HELP University, addressed family mental health, while Julianna Tang, trainee counsellor and play therapist, conducted a Mandarin session on parent–child communication.
? For working adults, Dr Victor Goh, senior lecturer and acting dean at HELP University’s Faculty of Psychology, spoke on Finding Purpose at Work and in Life.
Alongside the workshops, participants visited an art exhibition and experiential booths offering hands-on and reflective activities. The exhibition featured artworks depicting personal journeys with mental health, complemented by written reflections. At the art therapy booth, Art psychotherapist Reena Clare facilitated a creative sponge-stamping activity designed to encourage self-expression rather than perfection. Other booths provided psychometric assessments and body postural screenings to help participants understand their well-being better.
The day concluded with a community sharing session, where panellists discussed practical ways to support one another. “Many people struggle silently, as mental health issues are often invisible,” one panellist remarked. “It is crucial that we remain compassionate and reach out.”
Panellists also encouraged youth to seek professional help instead of relying solely on artificial intelligence or online tools for mental health support.
In his closing remarks and blessing, Fr Philip Chua thanked all organisers, volunteers, and participants for their dedication and service.
The event offered more than just information — it created a safe space for conversation, understanding, and hope. By bringing together faith and professional expertise, the Church of Divine Mercy took another step toward normalising discussions on mental health and strengthening the Church’s role as a community of care and compassion. – Herald Malaysia
