On September 17, the Home Care Network held a panel on depression in the Queens Public Library. Doctors and specialists were invited to talk about symptoms, treatment and preventive measures to suicide. Among others, Asian-American psychologists Peter Yee, Wendy Wang and Irene Chung participated in the panel. State Assemblywoman Ellen Young, who was also present, said that Asian-American women’s suicide rate was higher than that of other ethnic groups, particularly those between the age of 14 and 25, and those older than 65.

According to Dr. Wang, statistics show that 10 to 25 percent of women in the United States suffer from depression, compared to 5 to 25 percent for men. The symptoms of depression include becoming dispirited, weight loss or gain due to dramatic dietary changes, irritation, insomnia, inability to concentrate, fatigue, and loss of self esteem. If more than four of the aforementioned symptoms persist for more than two weeks in one year, it is likely that a person is suffering from depression. The illness is generally a result of a chemical imbalance in the body, which can also lead to physical pain.

Dr. Chung said there are ways to prevent suicide. If one starts to complain about life and experiences a long period of neglect and isolation, he or she might choose suicide. Specialists suggest that words and conversation might be efficient means to change the mind of the patient. However, Chinese Americans are not good at expressing emotions, and reluctant to share concerns and problems generally. According to Chung, many problems can be solved by communication and seeking help and resources.

At the panel, State Assemblywoman Young also emphasized that the education on ways to deal with depression in the Chinese-American community could be achieved through workshops and consulting specialists. She hoped that Chinese Americans would recognize the importance of this problem and would pay more attention to it in order to prevent such tragedies.