I’ve experienced depression and anxiety for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until after my 50s that I was diagnosed with ADHD. Growing up in a Chinese family, I came to understand that I was only attracted to men—a truth that felt deeply wrong in a culture where being gay was rarely spoken of, let alone accepted.

My childhood was fraught with challenges. While my mother did her best to shield me, we both knew our situation wasn’t normal. The effects of my father’s gambling harm and other issues left deep and lasting impacts. As a sensitive person, these experiences shaped me in ways I’m still navigating today. The struggles of my past are not something I’ve overcome entirely; there are still moments when I take a step backward.

For people fortunate enough to have had a stable childhood and fewer challenges, the daily struggles we face may not be easily understood. I’m here to shine a light on our shared vulnerabilities for two important reasons: to provide solace and connection to those who need it, and to foster deeper understanding among those who may not have faced such struggles themselves. Together, we can bridge these experiences and create a space for empathy, compassion, and healing. Disclaimer The experiences, ideas, and the way my stories are framed and shared are authentically my own. In crafting the reflections and narratives shared here, I’ve embraced the assistance of AI technology, specifically ChatGPT, for grammar corrections and language refinement. As a non-native English speaker, I value clear and effective communication, and this tool has been invaluable in helping me achieve that. Every story, experience, and emotion shared in my writing is deeply personal, rooted in my life journey. The use of AI ensures that language barriers do not obscure the expression or connection these stories are meant to create.