Spirit of Hong Kong Awards: music helps student ‘build a better me’ as she battles schizophrenia
- Teresa Lam, who wants to use her struggles to help others as a teacher, nominated for Spirit of Perseverance award
- The 22-year-old had previously been diagnosed with depression and bipolar disorder
Teresa Lam Wan-ki, who has learned to live with her mental health condition, is eager to lend a helping hand to young people struggling along like she did, and stay by their side.
“Situations may vary, but love and company always matters,” the 22-year-old said.
She understands too well how important such timely and selfless support is to youngsters who need help.
Diagnosed with depression six years ago, and bipolar disorder a year later, Lam now receives treatment for schizophrenia.
“In the worst of situations, I self-harmed. I also had suicidal thoughts,” she said. “I heard voices criticising me.”
Lam has been admitted to hospital four times since she was in Form Four, with the most recent stay taking place in April.
Though her studies have been punctuated by relapses, she has never stopped learning or following her dreams.
“I have built a better me with music,” said Lam, who is studying the subject at Baptist University. “It lets me know I am not perfect.”
Understanding that relapses can happen again at any time, she seizes the day and always completes her coursework early.
“I have to adjust,” she said. “I do my best to reduce the risk of relapse, or shorten my hospital stay in the event that happens.”
Learning how to get help and live with her condition had helped, Lam said, adding “the darker the darkness, the brighter the light”.
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The annual event, co-organised by the South China Morning Post and property developer Sino Group, celebrates the achievements of remarkable people whose endeavours may otherwise go unnoticed.
Fung Wai-wah, of the Hong Kong Professional Teachers’ Union, recommended Lam for this year’s Spirit of Perseverance award, which recognises individuals who have, against the odds, overcome personal challenges to succeed.
Lam said she believed Hong Kong was a place full of love. She has gone to various schools to share her experience, in a bid to give back, and also gives advice on tertiary studies.
Inspired by many teachers at the institutions she attended, Lam plans to follow in their footsteps.
“I will care for my students, especially those with special education needs,” she said.
The aspiring teacher said she had received the same care from Dr Chan Kawai while studying for an associate degree course at the College of International Education, Baptist University.
“Dr Chan taught me to accept and appreciate myself,” Lam said.
The student was thankful that faculty members of the university’s music department, including professors Helan Yang Hon-lun and Ho Wai-chung, had gone the extra mile to support her.
Lam said Marsha Chow, her organ and piano teacher, advised her against comparing herself to others.
She was also grateful that Jess Chau, her university friend at the college, had accompanied her through many of her difficult moments.
