Role Play Script: Trai Phan and Jukka Sepp

Jukka Sepp: Hello, Trai. It's nice to meet you. Please, make yourself comfortable. How are you feeling today?

Trai Phan: [hesitantly] Hi... I'm okay, I guess. It's just... in Vietnamese culture, there's such a stigma around mental health issues. I feel ashamed to be seeking help.

Jukka Sepp: I understand, Trai. It's completely normal to feel that way, especially when cultural beliefs play a large role in how we view things like mental health. You're showing a lot of courage by being here today.

Trai Phan: Thank you. I would normally have talked to my brother when going through something like this, but he is no longer around, and I can't talk to other family members. They just don't get it.

Jukka Sepp: I'm sorry to hear about your brother. It sounds like he was someone you could really rely on. What do you feel has been the most challenging part about not having him around?

Trai Phan: [pauses, visibly emotional] Everything, honestly. We were close. He understood me better than anyone else.

Jukka Sepp: Losing someone that close can be incredibly difficult, and having such a personal loss while you're also dealing with the changes in your life must be overwhelming. How are you handling things with your children?

Trai Phan: I'm finding the weeks that I have the children are really hard. I feel for my wife... sorry, ex-wife. [puts hands over face in emotional distress]

Jukka Sepp: It's okay, Trai. It's tough to adjust to such significant changes. Let's take things one step at a time, alright? How are you managing your day-to-day responsibilities?

Trai Phan: My ex-wife used to do most of the parenting, even though she also works. In Vietnamese culture, it's normal for the wife to lead the parenting. I'm not very good at discipline. So, when I have the children for the week, I lose my mind! My mother helps with pickups and meals, but it's still hard.

Jukka Sepp: That sounds really challenging. Parenting can be tough under the best circumstances, and it's all the more difficult when you're adjusting to doing it alone. Have you been able to find any support from friends or community?

Trai Phan: A friend through work recommended I come to First Access. He's been here for his drinking. It felt like a good suggestion.

Jukka Sepp: It's great that you have a friend who could guide you to us. I want to assure you that you are in a supportive environment here. You mentioned earlier feeling overwhelmed. What are your biggest concerns right now?

Trai Phan: I love seeing my kids, but I have no patience, especially with my 14-year-old daughter. [sighs] I can only imagine what she must put her mother through.

Jukka Sepp: Teenage years can be tough for both parents and children. It's crucial to have patience for yourself too during this time. Have you considered any stress-relieving activities or found ways to unwind?

Trai Phan: I never used to drink, but I've started to.

Jukka Sepp: It's understandable to turn to coping mechanisms in times of stress. It's important to manage it so it doesn't become a larger issue. Have you noticed any physical symptoms related to your stress?

Trai Phan: I've been getting these headaches and haven't wanted to eat very much.

Jukka Sepp: Those symptoms can definitely be linked to stress and depression. I'm glad you're sharing this with me. I'd like for us to discuss some strategies and support systems that can help. Sounds good?

Trai Phan: Yes, please. I often think about what my father said to me when my marriage broke down. He said, "It should have been you" when my brother came up in conversation. I think... maybe life would be much easier for everyone if I was just... gone.

Jukka Sepp: Trai, it's very important we address those thoughts. It sounds like you're carrying around a lot of pain and guilt. Remember, you are not alone in this. I can help refer you to a support system specifically for these feelings. Would you be open to talking with someone else more specialized in this area too?

Trai Phan: [nods] Yes, I think I'd like that.

Jukka Sepp: That's a positive step. I'm glad you're open to getting the support you need. Now, let's talk about ways we can help you around the house and maybe some activities with the kids that could also relieve some stress.

Trai Phan: Okay, I'm willing to try.

Jukka Sepp: Great. Let's look at some strategies and resources. I'll give you some pamphlets, and we can talk through them.

Therapy or Counselling: After-school activities for the children, Youth Counselling, Alcoholics Anonymous or other local support groups can offer guidance and support.

Physical Health Check-Up:

We have to schedule a complete physical check-up so we can address the headaches and appetite changes you're experiencing. We have to ensure your physical health is monitored alongside your mental health.

Trai Phan: Thank you, Jukka. I really appreciate this.

Jukka Sepp: It's my pleasure, Trai. You're doing a brave thing by taking these steps. Let's work together to make things easier for you and your family.

Once you complete the role play, please answer the following questions:

Knowing Trai's culture, ethnic and spiritual background, what did you need to consider when supporting him?

Make a short but complete answer.