Philippine domestic worker Beverly Tamiao Gomez endured severe stress from constant berating by her employer, which led to sleep and appetite issues and a 7kg weight loss over two years in Singapore [1, 2, 3, 4]. Gomez described how her former employer would hit doors, raise their voice, and criticise her cooking despite correct efforts, causing lasting emotional distress. "I went to my room and cried... (I felt) I am doing my best, but you are not contented," she said [1].

Gomez joined the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) network in 2019 after friends recommended it to her. The CDE, established by the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), is an NGO dedicated to supporting migrant domestic workers' welfare and increasing mental health awareness in Singapore [1, 2, 3, 4].

In 2023, Gomez attended a mindfulness workshop organized by CDE, which included an animal therapy session. Cradling a trembling guinea pig during the workshop helped her realise the importance of self-care. "Like us, if the animals feel stressed, there is a technique on how (to) hold them," Gomez explained [1].

Alongside animal therapy, Gomez participated in journaling and meditation sessions through CDE to manage her stress [1, 2, 3, 4]. Michael Lim, NTUC's migrant workers segment director, noted an increasing openness among migrant workers to share mental health struggles in group settings. "That is a big, important first step because it reduces the barrier for workers to speak up," Lim said [1].

In July 2025, Gomez started working for a new employer and adopted healthier ways to handle stress, including listening to rock music, jogging, and baking [1, 2, 3, 4].

Employers' mistreatment of domestic helpers remains a significant cause of mental health challenges among this group in Singapore. Organisations like the CDE and Silver Ribbon (Singapore) provide critical services such as mindfulness workshops, 24-hour helplines, and professional counselling to improve migrant workers' well-being [1, 2, 3, 4].

Gomez reflected on her experience during an interview with The Straits Times in April 2026, sharing how the animal therapy session had a lasting impact on her [1, 2, 3, 4]. The CDE continues to offer similar programs aimed at helping domestic workers cope with stress and promote mental health awareness.