News article
Asian Family Services has received funding from the Ministry of Health to boost existing mental health support for Asians living in New Zealand experiencing distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kelly Feng, National Director Asian Family Services, says COVID-19 is having a significant impact on people’s lives and causing many Asians living in New Zealand to feel anxious, distressed, and confused.
“We have recognised this need and are pleased to provide funding for additional support including extending their Asian Helpline hours along with online and face-to-face counselling support in different languages,” said Robyn Shearer, Deputy Director General Mental Health and Addiction.
Kelly Feng says the most important message they want Asian people to understand is that they are not alone and support is available free of charge and completely confidential.
Asian Family Services has professionally trained and experienced counsellors that can speak English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Japanese, Thai and Hindi, who provide emotional support to anyone who needs it during this difficult and unsettling time.
Asian Family Services is also developing a suite of resources to help people who are currently struggling with their mental health by providing simple, tangible actions. These resources will be translated into several languages.