U Matters - 14 October 2021 | U Matters

U Matters - 14 October 2021

by Rev Dr Michele Bland on October 14, 2021

U MATTERS

This week, we celebrate World Mental Health Day - October 10^th. The city and the world have been facing extreme issues which are taking a toll on our emotional and psychological well-being. Mental health issues around the world are on the rise and Hong Kong is no exception.

According to Mind Hong Kong:

1 in 7 people in Hong Kong will experience a common mental disorder in their lifetime - of those experiencing a mental health disorder, three-quarters will not seek professional help
61% of Hong Kong adults currently suffer from poor mental well-being
1 in 4 Hong Kong workers suffer symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is 2.5 times higher than the global average – and around 18% require psychological treatment.

Self-care and caring for our own well-being are critical. It is critical that we live balanced lives - that we get enough exercise, eat properly, sleep, and care for our social and spiritual well-being. It is critical that we are mindful of our own feelings - that we are honest with ourselves and others. When asked the question "how are you?" how do you respond?

Being real with how we are feeling is so important for well-being. It is easy to say "I am fine" but how are you really?

Can you relate to this short video from the UK's Mental Health Foundation?

If you have found yourself saying "you are fine" - but really you are not and you would like someone to talk to please let us know. We would be happy to connect you confidentially to a Stephen Minister. They are trained to listen and support. Sometimes we need professional help. If this is you, we would be happy to help guide you in this process. Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

As we reflect on our own well-being, it is important to remember that God has given us community - we have each other. “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12

So, how are you?

Pastor Michele

About the Author

Rev Dr Michele Bland

Pastor Michele came to Hong Kong in 1996 with her husband Glenn. Pastor Michele holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Masters of Divinity, a Masters in Theology and a Masters in Psychology. Michele was ordained with the Canadian Baptist Convention, has advance standing in CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education), and before coming to Asia she was a youth pastor.

Pastor Michele was appointed Associate Pastor at Union Church in 2012 and became Senior Pastor in 2020. She is a trained Stephen Leader and has trained over 20 members of our congregation to become Stephen Ministers. During her time in Hong Kong, Pastor Michele served on the pastoral staff at another international church for over a decade and has worked in private practice. She has taught in hospitals in China, as well as seminaries in Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Pastor Michele has two university-aged children. Highlights have included working on a kibbutz in Israel, traveling to far off destinations and hanging out with her family. She loves good coffee and conversation.