Ngoc Giau is currently a Master of Psychology, a lecturer at universities, and participates in various emotional intelligence training programs for NGOs. With extensive knowledge in the field of psychology and years of teaching experience, she has become a spiritual pillar for many members of the VietSeeds family.

Q: Having interacted with many VietSeeds students from various generations, what common issues related to mental health do you observe among them?

A: I also grew up in a difficult, large family and received a scholarship for four years of university. So, in a way, I can feel the internal struggles of the students. Many unexpressed needs, suppressed emotions, unanswered questions, and sometimes confusion about their strengths and differences from others. They strive to excel as much as possible to feel noticed, cared for, and valuable. Sometimes feeling confident, sometimes insecure. Sometimes being open, other times wanting to withdraw. Often feeling meaningless about studying, worrying about others' reactions, and thinking about the future.

Q: Despite the current challenges, you have been conducting many online sharing/practice sessions on Mindfulness for VietSeeds students and the Core-team. Is Mindfulness the most important lesson in mental health that people need to learn?

A: In the emotional education program (SEL) that I and Ms. Cat Phuong guide for VietSeeds students, we emphasize the importance of practicing Mindfulness for changes in the brain structure—the biological foundation of emotions. Through this, we can identify inner emotions, not react automatically to strong emotional urges, handle difficult emotions with compassion, and understand that we nurture difficult emotions with negative thoughts. Therefore, Mindfulness is a crucial practice.

However, proper guidance is necessary. If mental health difficulties are severe, seeking professional help is essential.

Q: Listening to many stories from students, including sad stories, struggles, fatigue, etc., has it ever affected your mental health? If yes, how do you address it?

A: My mind is nourished by information. So, listening to challenging stories undoubtedly affects my mind. But later, I chose to listen without trying to change or rescue. I find this really beneficial for me and for the students. I also practice nurturing love and inner peace within myself. So when I listen to students, I can give them the gift of peace.

Q: Thank you for accompanying VietSeeds during this time, and we hope to continue accompanying you in upcoming projects!