But mental stress is a real issue and when suppressed can manifest itself in bodily aches and pains and in some cases, even disease.
If you knew of someone who could lend an ear, would you take them up on the offer?
If you’re one such person in need of a shoulder to cry on, maybe a visit to The Inner Lynk is just the balm you need to soothe your psychological pain.
In a recent interview with FMT, founder Gia Kon said the urge to set up the centre was like ‘a calling’ to her.
“I can’t imagine myself doing anything else but this,” they said, adding that since they have always been drawn to entrepreneurship and to helping people, it made sense to combine both these interests and open The Inner Lynk.
Gia said the pandemic in particular dealt a heavy blow on Malaysians from a psychological perspective. “More and more people are reaching out now. They acknowledge their mental health needs.”
Kon’s centre provides psychological and wellness services as they believe that leading a healthy lifestyle helps to develop a healthy mindset.
Kon said, “When we talk about mental health, we are just talking about a healthy mind. But what happens to the body? When you have a healthy mind, a healthy body, and a healthy soul, you are able to take on challenges in life.”
Kon said that people experience stress on a daily basis but that not everyone knows how to deal with it effectively. That’s why the centre offers depression and anxiety workshops as well as stress awareness group therapy workshops for working adults.
These workshops allow people to meet others who share the same struggles so they know they are not alone. Workshop participants also receive effective solutions on how to deal with issues.
The Inner Lynk conducts Instagram Live sessions on various topics from establishing boundaries to autism awareness and dealing with adult ADHD.
They also offer mock counselling sessions where people can experience what a typical therapy session would be like.
Kon said, “We want to celebrate people from different walks of life. To give them a community so they know they are not alone.”
This dedication to community and compassion means that Kon’s centre offers unconventional wellness activities as well.
The centre’s interns conduct RM50 walk-in sessions; they offer free HIV testing every third Sunday of the month; you can also sign-up for yoga classes, fitness training, and even sound bath therapy.
Plus, as a ‘queer-friendly’ organisation, the centre is a place of safety and community for those struggling with their identity and craving a sense of belonging.
Many find the idea of community appealing. After all, mental health issues such as depression and low morale tend to stem from a sense of isolation.
It is this inbred desire to help people feel a sense of belonging that drives Kon. Inspired by their late grandmother who was a very community spirited woman, Kon said they have always found themselves drawn to community activities.
“She was always bubbly and social, hosting celebrations, gathering people. Wanting to talk to people, help people. I liked that vibe,” Kon said of their grandmother. Now, through The Inner Lynk, Kon strives to give others that same love and compassion.
The Inner Lynk will have a booth in Publika from May 9-15 from 10am to 10pm where they will share information about their many services and outreach activities.
One of their most fun activities will be a comedy show for mental health in collaboration with ‘I Laugh KL’ held at The Joke Factory, Publika at 8.30pm on July 2.
Follow The Inner Lynk on Instagram and on their website for further information.
The Inner Lynk
Publika, Block C3
Level 3A, Unit 07
Jalan Dutamas 1
Solaris Dutamas
50480, Kuala Lumpur