I recently came across the heartbreaking news of a 30-year-old employee of China International Capital Corporation (CICC) who took her own life. Speculations abound regarding the factors leading to this tragedy: salary cuts, financial strain from mortgage obligations, losses due to housing depreciation in Shanghai, and the burden of postpartum depression.
This young woman had a remarkable past marked by outstanding academic achievements and significant experience in foreign exchange at work. Her life had been relatively smooth, void of hardships. And she harbored high aspirations for the future. She had never encountered substantial setbacks or experienced the unpredictability of life's ups and downs.
While there are many speculations about the specific event that may have been the tipping point, I believe the core issue lies in her psychological instability and fragility and lack of mental and psychological preparation for such challenges.
In reflecting on this tragedy, many Chinese sayings come to mind. I think we’re in a hard time now, no exceptions for most of us. In times like this, this saying captures the attitude and the spirit that we should have: 逢山开路，遇水架桥 (féng shān kāi lù, yù shuǐ jià qiáo) meaning: "If you meet a mountain blocking your way, dig a tunnel; if you encounter a river blocking your way, build a bridge."
This saying encourages us to face obstacles head-on with courage and creativity — whether by carving a path through mountains or building bridges over rivers. It speaks to the resilience needed to navigate life's hardships and the importance of finding constructive solutions.
Finally, this unfortunate event should remind us of the importance of mental health awareness and support in society. It calls for greater empathy and understanding towards those facing difficulties, urging us all to develop resilience and seek help when needed.