'Be critical of coping mechanisms': Mental health advocate on 'self-compassion over saving face'

While Filipinos are known to be one of the happiest people in the world, mental health advocate Giancarlo de Vera says that we should be cautious about always pushing through the hurt and simply 'looking at the bright side' of things.

Giancarlo de Vera says that it's important to choose self-compassion over saving face when it comes to one's mental health. Source: iStockphoto / champpixs/Getty Images

Key Points

• BEING – Mental Health Consumers is the independent, NSW peak organisation that advocates for people who have lived or are living with mental health issues and emotional distress.
• People have coping mechanisms when dealing with distress and mental health issues. While some are helpful, some prevent people from seeking help.
• Giancarlo de Vera, CEO of BEING - Mental Health Consumers, encourages people to choose self-compassion over saving face.

Giancarlo de Vera is the CEO of BEING - Mental Health Consumers. Credit: Supplied

Don't worry about saving face. There is power in vulnerability and beauty in coming together for each other.

Giancarlo de Vera, CEO of BEING - Mental Health Consumers

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