World Mental Health Day: How Family, Jiu-Jitsu and Fitness Help Me Reset
For World Mental Health Day, Dr Andrew Choong shares a personal reflection on family, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, weightlifting and music—and why making time for the people and activities that keep us grounded matters.
World Mental Health Day, on 10 October, is a reminder to make room for mental wellbeing alongside physical health. In this video, I share a personal reflection on the people and activities that help keep me grounded.
Surgery can be stressful, and so can life outside work. We cannot always change the circumstances around us. What we can sometimes change is how we respond, where we find support and whether we give ourselves time for the things that matter.
What keeps me grounded outside surgery?
My wife and daughter are at the centre of my life. They are my greatest source of strength and joy, and they remind me of what matters beyond the demands of work. That connection is the starting point of my reflection.
When I talk about looking after myself, I do not mean finding a perfect routine or removing every source of stress. I mean recognising the people who bring perspective to my life and making space to be with them.
Why do jiu-jitsu, weightlifting and music matter to me?
Brazilian jiu-jitsu, weightlifting and playing the guitar are activities I enjoy. Each helps bring me into the present moment. They offer time away from the concerns that can otherwise fill my thoughts, and they give me pleasure in their own right.
These are my interests, rather than a formula everyone needs to follow. Someone else might find that same sense of engagement in a walk, a creative hobby or time with friends. The useful question is which activities leave you feeling more connected to yourself and your life.
As a vascular surgeon, much of my professional work focuses on physical health. This personal video makes space for the other part of wellbeing: how we feel, what supports us and what we enjoy beyond our responsibilities.
How can we make space for what matters?
My message is simple: make time for what fills your cup. Protect some space for the people and activities that help you feel grounded, even when life is busy. Enjoyment does not have to be earned by reaching a particular fitness level or finishing every task.
Connection matters too. Spending time with family and friends can be a way of sharing both the good moments and the difficult ones. Sometimes looking after ourselves begins with acknowledging that we need support, rather than expecting ourselves to manage everything alone.
This is a personal reflection, not a treatment plan for a mental health condition. Hobbies and exercise do not replace professional support when it is needed. Asking for help is compatible with being capable, committed and strong.
What is my World Mental Health Day message?
Be kind to other people, and extend that kindness to yourself. Make time for what you enjoy. Stay close to the people who matter to you. Mental wellbeing deserves a place in everyday life, not only a mention on an awareness day.
You can read more about me and my work at Andrew Choong Vascular Surgery. My current vascular clinic is at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, #09-22, 38 Irrawaddy Road, Singapore 329563.