As winter’s first chill sweeps across China, days grow shorter and nights stretch longer. For many, this seasonal shift brings more than just extra layers—it can fuel the winter blues, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) ❄️.
Simple rituals like journaling to your favorite playlist, brisk neighborhood walks, a quick workout, or a heartfelt chat with friends can help clear your head and boost your mood 📝🚶♀️🏋️♂️💬.
But for millions, the path to wellness is not so straightforward. According to the World Health Organization, over one billion people worldwide live with a mental health disorder—that’s one in every seven people 🌍.
October 10 marked World Mental Health Day, and as we wrap up the month, it’s the perfect time to keep the conversation going.
In China, mental health affects millions each year. The WHO estimates more than 54 million people in China live with depression, while another 41 million face anxiety.
Youth are especially vulnerable: China’s first comprehensive psychiatric study found that 17.5 percent of children and adolescents have a psychiatric condition, with 3 percent showing signs of depression and 4.7 percent experiencing anxiety.
The good news? The government is expanding mental health services across the country, from online counseling to community centers, making it easier to find support when you need it.
For our South and Southeast Asian fam—whether you’re exploring Jakarta’s street food scene or hustling through Bengaluru’s tech hubs—these tips can help. Try a mini digital detox, dance to your favorite k-pop or Bollywood track, or simply check in with your squad on WhatsApp 📵🎶👫.
Let’s break the stigma and build a supportive community. Got self-care hacks? Share them below and let’s lift each other up! 🙌
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
