Mr Zainal Lee

Mr Zainal Lee is a senior manager and team lead for Caregiver Support Network Community Outreach Team (CREST-CSN) in Club HEAL, a programme that focuses on caregivers who are caring for persons at risk of or with mental health issues and/or dementia, or are at risk of developing depression, anxiety and burnout themselves due to their caregiving role.
As the former programme head in Club HEAL, he previously supervised a team of counsellors and oversaw the rehabilitation programme. He graduated from the American University for Humanities with a degree in counselling and has more than 25 years of experience in counselling. He conducts support group and motivational sessions for people with mental health issues and their caregivers.
He also volunteers with other social agencies during his spare time conducting peer support groups and suicide prevention workshops.
He regularly gives public talks on mental health and dementia, and occasionally contributes articles on caregiving for various publications. Incidentally, he is also a caregiver to multiple family members.

Track Title: The Importance of Caregiver Support: “Every Caregiver Matters”
Date: 17 July 2025, Thursday
Time: 11.15 AM
Breakout Session: Track 4 – Voices From The Community

Synopsis
THE IMPORTANCE OF CAREGIVER SUPPORT: “EVERY CAREGIVER MATTERS”
Research has indicated that social support acts as a buffer against many negative health repercussions on caregivers.

At Club HEAL, the team recognises the impact on the emotional and mental health of caregivers as they journey along the endless road of uncertainty.

Many share their personal caregiving experiences through bumps and tested ways of dealing with roadblocks and vent their frustrations as the pathway is very overwhelming, but they are not daunted.

Through Club HEAL’sCREST Caregiver Support Network (CSN), it aims to make a difference for caregivers. With access to resources like respite care, support groups and education, caregivers can feel less isolated and more equipped to manage their responsibilities.

Emotional support from our caregiver advocates and professionals creates a safe space to share their struggles, celebrate small victories and to learn from others facing similar challenges.

Practical resources, such as workshops and training, help our caregivers build the skills they need to navigate complex situations with patience, dedication, compassion and empathy.