On August 8, 112 (2023), the New Affairs Office conducted its third health course for migrant workers. The theme of the course was mental health, which is considered one of the ways to maintain physical health. At the beginning of the course, the speaker asked the migrant workers, "How important is mental health to you?" They could choose a rating from 0 to 5, with 0 indicating "not important at all" and 5 indicating "extremely important." All of the migrant workers chose 5, signifying that mental health is indeed very important to them.
Next, the speaker explained the meaning of mental health, the risk factors that can lead to poor mental health, and the symptoms of mental health issues. On these topics, the speaker and the migrant workers shared their perspectives. For instance, when discussing the risk factors leading to poor mental health, the speaker asked the migrant workers, "What factors are currently causing you stress?" Almost all of the migrant workers mentioned issues related to their work, finances, and problems with their employers. Some felt stressed due to unemployment or financial difficulties, while others were dealing with ongoing issues with their employers.
After introducing the concept of mental health, we engaged in an activity called "How Have You Been Feeling Lately?" In this activity, migrant workers drew emojis on paper to express their recent emotions. Each person could draw multiple emojis and then share their feelings. During this activity, everyone took it very seriously, and they enthusiastically shared their recent emotions. Some drew emojis representing happiness, while others expressed sadness, and a few even found joy in participating in this activity.
Following the emoji-drawing activity, the speaker explained some stress relief methods, and everyone listened attentively while also sharing their own opinions.
The final activity was called "Letting Go." In this activity, migrant workers wrote down all their worries, fears, negative thoughts, or bad experiences on paper. During the sharing, three workers were willing to share what they had written. Some may have had traumatic experiences with previous employers that had caused psychological distress, while others worried about their children's well-being, among other concerns.
After sharing, the migrant workers could choose to tear up or fold the paper and then place it in a box. This activity encouraged the workers to let go of all their negative thoughts or bad experiences, promoting improved mental well-being. The workers seemed happy to put their written "worries" into the box, concluding today's session on a positive note.
The New Life Social Service Center is a social service organization dedicated to caring for disadvantaged workers in the workplace. They work tirelessly to promote resource sharing for a harmonious society, focusing on the well-being of migrant workers and elderly care. Their mission is to build a harmonious society with the cooperation of migrant workers and employers, helping marginalized groups who suffer from exploitation and unfair treatment. They invite you to become their guardians, and your donations will help those in need to overcome difficulties and receive assistance. Please click "「我要捐款」(I want to donate)" or call (02)2397-1933 #122. Thank you for your response and concern!