Readers react to intimate mental therapy memoir by Korean author

When Korean author Baek Sehee selfpublished her first book I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki she did not expect sales to go through the roof The book became a cult classic especially among Korean culture enthusiasts Now six years later she is back with another therapy memoir The recordings of Baekrsquos therapy sessions were meant to be a personal guide for her But the book which was essentially a transcript of her counselling sessions became an international bestseller It resonated deeply with those struggling with anxiety and depression As Baek continues her battle with dysthymia she reaches out once more to her readersHvovi BhagwagarMumbaibased psychologist and psychotherapist specialising in clinical disorders and traumatic stressThe first book I Want to Die But I Want to Eat Tteokbokki offers a perceptive depiction of therapy But unlike other titles this one captures the rsquorealtimersquo subtleties of the patienttherapist interaction through elaborately described transcripts For an Asian therapist like me this book is unique because it provides a cultural lens through which mental health issues in South Korea can be viewed The cultural context of therapy in the South Asian diaspora is rarely explored in literature as most books on psychology and psychotherapy originate from the WestWhile the book offers an unfiltered look into the therapy process experiences can vary greatly depending on the individuals involved These sessions represent just one example of how therapy can unfoldThere are ethical implications of sharing therapy transcripts with the worldrsquo Baek Seheersquos psychiatrist expressed concerns about being knowingly recorded which Baek has acknowledged in the book If the psychiatrist knew of the recordings and possible public sharing it could have impacted the nature of the psychiatric care providedThe authorrsquos depiction of dysthymia sounds authentic particularly her daily struggles with chronic low mood lack of motivation and feelings of inadequacy Both books also acknowledge possible overlapping mental conditions such as personality disorder and addictions Her honesty and fluctuating mood make for an absorbing read and a realistic portrayal of living with this form of depressionReading the book felt voyeuristic but as a psychotherapist I can see how the verbatim therapy accounts might be resourceful to someone in a depressive episode The authorrsquos willingness to openly discuss her feelings of despair and her vulnerability can help readers feel less isolated and more willing to seek supportFrom a mental health literacy perspective the transparency of the verbatim conversations can demystify therapy showing it involves both guidance and collaborationAmrita PratapLawyer KPop fan Korean culture enthusiastI Want to Die but I Still Want to Eat Tteokbokki Further Conversations with My Psychiatrist delves into the intricate layers of mental health within the context of Korean culture offering an insight into a personrsquos journey towards healing and selfdiscoveryBaek confronts the taboo topic of suicidal ideation It could prove graphic for many readers But in my opinion itrsquos a topic that should be openly discussed The book provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the inner struggles of women in Korean culture Itrsquos very different from the Korean literature I have read otherwiseThe narrative may at times appear introspective and sombre But if you can look past that itrsquos a rare book stemming from Korean culture to tackle depressionAs someone who has experienced similar pressures to conform I see echoes of Baek Seheersquos past struggles in my own life I am sure many others will too The key as Baek Sehee discovers lies in unconditional selfacceptance and love Therapy memoir is a unique genremdashone that blends selfhelp with engaging storytelling It offers both practical insights and an enjoyable read This book is a perfect example of itBaekrsquos willingness to openly discuss her depressive thoughts makes this relatable and comforting for those in the same boat and is perhaps the reason why the book is a bestsellerArushi SethiCEO and cofounder of Trijog a counselling and mental health organizationTherapy memoirs like this consist of very personal stories that real individuals have lived They can help destigmatise mental health concerns encourage open discussions and normalise seeking therapy They also help in challenging stereotypes and shifting cultural narratives broadening perspectives to foster a more empathetic and inclusive societyIn the Asian context mental health is often viewed negatively accompanied by intense shame and guilt Instead of struggling in silos individuals may realise that it is possible to work through mental health concerns with the right support and resourcesLiterature plays a significant role in providing a more empathetic and informed understanding of mental health concerns Through narratives like Baek Seheersquos mental health professionals can educate themselves to gain deeper insights into client experiences improving their ability to provide quality careBooks like these help educate the public and dispel myths allowing for a deeper understanding of mental health concerns from a personal perspective and cultivating empathy They can aid in creating support networks of communities both online and offline where individuals can share their personal experiencesMeghna SinghalPsychotherapist and mental health influencerThis book delves into the raw and unfiltered experiences of the authorrsquos struggle with depression and selfharmThe open dialogue written as an actual conversation destigmatises discussions surrounding mental health fostering greater awareness of what an empathetic and compassionate therapeutic encounter looks likeI believe topics related to mental health need to be discussed and made accessible to the public as they help dispel myths and misconceptions making balanced dialogue on mental health issues more important than ever This holds especially in our digital age where misinformation spreads quicklySuch stories can become extremely powerful tools for mental health advocacy including policy and support systems and servicesAs Baek Sehee has done sharing mental health struggles can significantly help others It breaks down the stigma surrounding mental health making it easier for others to seek help and support When individuals share their experiences through books or other mediums like online blogs it can validate the feelings of others going through similar challenges helping them feel less alone It also provides an opportunity for education and understanding both for those experiencing mental health issues and for those supporting themHowever there are risks involved in sharing onersquos therapy session transcripts such as stigmatisation and discrimination in relationships or workplaces It could also lead to the risk of misinterpretation or blame from others Sometimes it may also lead to vulnerability and exposure to secondary victimisation ie when the person recalling their mental health struggles gets adversely impacted through the act of sharing themBut there are significant benefits too It could empower both the person disclosing their struggles and those finding relatability in their narrative Such stories can become extremely powerful tools for mental health advocacy including policy and support systems and services