Mental Health, Body Image, and Childhood Bullying in Vietnam with Tôn Nữ Thiên An

Creators in Vietnam

Tôn Nữ Thiên An has stories that likely many Vietnamese Millennials can relate to, but very few of which have talked about out loud. We hope this episode opens up a conversation for young Vietnamese to discuss mental health, body image, and bullying.
An bravely shares, for the first time, her experience being bullied as a child by both her classmates and her teacher. She felt worthless, until her Literature teacher stepped in and believed in her. It was a turning point for An to realize that all we need is someone to believe in us. This has led An to become an English teacher, passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment for her students, in the hopes that none of them will have to go through what she did. She introduces her students to taboo topics like racism, sexism, and LGBTQ+ issues.
She also opens up about her battle with body image, leading to an eating disorder and subsequent health problems, due to being mocked by her family about her weight and unrealistic beauty standards upheld in Vietnam and globally.

In Vietnam, it's considered "weak" to share about your problems. We hope to change this narrative, to encourage people to openly share and express your emotions. You are NOT alone.

Resources:
https://beautifulmindvn.com/
Connect with An:
Instagram: @andorable._

Connect with Nicolas Thành:

French Expat Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/frenchexpatsvn

IzyViet: https://izyviet.com/

Personal website: https://nicolasthanh.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolasthanhg/

Connect with Dana Drahos:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dana.drahos/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dana.drahos/

Connect with Tue Si Nguyen:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tuesi