We tend to flash ourselves during good times and hide when we falter. This is misleading of what is real and human.
According to World Health Organisation, mental health disorders will be the most important health issue in 2030. It's a global crisis in the making. In China, WHO estimates that 54 million persons are affected by depression on a daily basis and that nearly half of those are also diagnosed with severe anxiety disorders. Other sources say that one out of ten suffers, will suffer or have suffered from depression in the course of their life time. Still, we don't talk about it because mental illness is the awkward cousin in the family of illness. The significant stigma surrounding mental health issues explain the many barriers to receiving treatment or support.

It’s tough to discuss, tough to understand and tougher to admit to having depression. The difference between being depressed and suffering from depression is like nursing an injury versus having chronic pain. Those who know describe depression as a houseguest that wasn't invited, a constant black dog that follows you everywhere and refuses to leave.

This exhibition brings together personal statements from Chinese persons suffering from depression and anxiety with Danish relatives who speak up about their feelings of loving someone who's gradually falling apart. We thank Tulip Sunshine Group and the Danish Association for Better Psychiatry for these contributions.


Content warning:
This exhibition contains material that may be harmful or traumatizing to some audience
If you need support or advice, please refer to the following contact:
中国心理危机与自杀干预中心
电话：010-62715275
上海生命热线 (For English Speakers)
联系电话：021-62798990
网站：lifeline-shanghai.com