TVB Actress Lesley Chiang, 36, Struggled With Depression & Contemplated Suicide, But Kept It From Actor Dad Paul Chun

Hong Kong actress Lesley Chiang, 36, appeared as a guest on the last episode of Grace Chan’s talk show Love Matters with Grace.

Grace and Lesley discussed all things mental health, with Lesley revealing her own struggles with depression.

Grace and Lesley sailed out to sea to chat about mental health and self-love

Grace first asked Lesley on what she would define “self-love”.

Lesley said that in order to love others, one must first take care of their own bodies and their mental health.

In order to practice the self-love which she preaches, Lesley, who describes herself as a “mental health advocate” on her social media bio, says that no matter how busy she is or how tired she feels from work, she would insist on exercising in the gym or at home.

She believes that exercise provides her brain with the endorphins it needs, and besides being a great outlet for de-stressing, it also allows her to focus less on her troubles.

Grace and Lesley decided to take a plunge into the sea in honour of the show coming to a close

Grace and Lesley then gave their two cents on how others might deal with mental health issues.

They both agreed that Asians are perhaps more likely to hide their “vulnerable side” from others, or they might be afraid to worry their friends and family. Which might result in them being unwilling to share about their struggles with mental health.

Lesley and her supportive dad, Paul Chun

Lesley revealed that she once faced a similar situation. She used to struggle with depression due to a failed relationship, and had thought about committing suicide three times.

Lesley, who is the daughter of veteran actor Paul Chun, 77, and sister of actor Benji Chiang, 42, was afraid of affecting her family members. She also didn't want to be labeled as “Paul’s daughter who has depression”.

As such, she hid her struggles with mental health from her dad, and instead sought comfort from her friends.

When she eventually decided to open up to her dad about the problems she was facing, she was met with unconditional support. In order to better help her, Paul also tried to educate himself on mental health and depression.

Lesley, who is now happily married to a 31-year-old engineer, revealed that she was extremely touched and motivated by her dad. He has also encouraged her to continue sharing her mental health experience with others.

Lesley has found her happy-ever-after with husband, Pakho

Photos: Sinchew News, Lesley Chiang/ Instagram

If you or someone you know is having difficulties coping with mental health struggles, here are some numbers to call:

Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444

Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019

CHAT @ *SCAPE: (+65) 6493 6500, (+65) 6493 6501

SAF Counselling Hotline: 1800-278-0022