As a first generation Filipino American, I felt incredibly fortunate to be raised in an upper-middle class environment, have education paid for, been able to travel the world. My parents came from nothing in the Philippines and worked their asses off to in one generation give me what they never had. While I would be reminded of how much they worked to provide for me, I honestly never felt pressure from them to succeed. They raised me to believe that I could do/have whatever I want with my life, so long as I worked hard. I truly felt privileged.

This privilege fostered a mentality that "sure, I'm depressed, but I'm luck enough- I need to get over it and stop complaining." I minimized my won depression, anxiety and complex trauma. (I know, feel free to judge- how can I as a PhD psychologist minimize my own mental health - well I'm not the only shrink to do it, sadly.)

No matter what our background, distress and trauma are real - noone is impervious. The COVID crisis is reminding us that no race, no gender, no socio-economic background is impervious to this threat, nor the emotional overwhelm it fosters.

I'll chat about my experience and how this mindset can impact relationships.