TVB Actress Lesley Chiang, 36, Struggled With Depression & Contemplated Suicide, But Kept It From Actor Dad Paul Chun
Her mental health suffered after a failed relationship.
Hong Kong actress Lesley Chiang, 36, appeared as a guest on the last episode of Grace Chan’s talk show Love Matters with Grace.
Grace and Lesley discussed all things mental health, with Lesley revealing her own struggles with depression.
Grace first asked Lesley on what she would define “self-love”.
Lesley said that in order to love others, one must first take care of their own bodies and their mental health.
In order to practice the self-love which she preaches, Lesley, who describes herself as a “mental health advocate” on her social media bio, says that no matter how busy she is or how tired she feels from work, she would insist on exercising in the gym or at home.
She believes that exercise provides her brain with the endorphins it needs, and besides being a great outlet for de-stressing, it also allows her to focus less on her troubles.
Grace and Lesley then gave their two cents on how others might deal with mental health issues.
They both agreed that Asians are perhaps more likely to hide their “vulnerable side” from others, or they might be afraid to worry their friends and family. Which might result in them being unwilling to share about their struggles with mental health.
Lesley revealed that she once faced a similar situation. She used to struggle with depression due to a failed relationship, and had thought about committing suicide three times.
Lesley, who is the daughter of veteran actor Paul Chun, 77, and sister of actor Benji Chiang, 42, was afraid of affecting her family members. She also didn't want to be labeled as “Paul’s daughter who has depression”.
As such, she hid her struggles with mental health from her dad, and instead sought comfort from her friends.
When she eventually decided to open up to her dad about the problems she was facing, she was met with unconditional support. In order to better help her, Paul also tried to educate himself on mental health and depression.
Lesley, who is now happily married to a 31-year-old engineer, revealed that she was extremely touched and motivated by her dad. He has also encouraged her to continue sharing her mental health experience with others.
Photos: Sinchew News, Lesley Chiang/ Instagram
If you or someone you know is having difficulties coping with mental health struggles, here are some numbers to call:
Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444
Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
CHAT @ *SCAPE: (+65) 6493 6500, (+65) 6493 6501
SAF Counselling Hotline: 1800-278-0022