Onward as One: Promoting Singapore Mental Health Journey
As Singaporeans unite to celebrate our beloved nation's National Day this August 9th, we embark on a journey of collective growth, resilience, and unity. But before we could do that, let’s look back on how far we have come in the mental health and wellness field in Singapore.
Singapore recorded its highest suicide tally since 2000 due to rising mental distress from social pressures and economic uncertainty. In 2019, approximately 703,000 people died by suicide, making it a major global cause of death according to the World Health Organization (2019). In 2022, the city-state reported a total of 476 suicides, with a significant increase among youth and the elderly (Samaritans of Singapore, 2022). This makes suicide as the leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 29, constituting almost 39% of total deaths in that age group.
The statistics showed an alarming rate of growth in numbers of suicide. Thus, WHO aims to reduce the global suicide rate by a third by 2030. However, the current global rate of decline (36% in 20 years through 2019) is considered too slow to achieve the 2030 target. From this data, the next question stands. What can we do to help achieve this goal?
The Power of Unity
National Day is a time to celebrate our nation's accomplishments and recognize the strength we draw from our unity. Just as our unity has propelled Singapore to great heights, it can also be a powerful force in addressing mental health challenges. Together, we can break down barriers, reduce stigma, and create an environment where seeking mental health help is as natural as seeking medical assistance for physical ailments. But how?
Embracing Self-Care Practices
As they commonly say, “we cannot give what we do not have”. Onward as one, we must remember that taking care of ourselves is essential to being there for others. As we celebrate National Day, let us prioritize self-care practices that nourish our minds, bodies, and souls. Whether it's spending time in nature, engaging in hobbies, or practicing mindfulness, self-care allows us to recharge and maintain resilience.
Take a moment or two to reflect on something that you always wanted to do but have been putting off for quite some time now, you may do this during the holiday!
If you want to read more about kickstarting self-care practices, you can read our blog about handling stress and burnout here.
Supporting Mental Health Services
While our nation has made strides in supporting mental health initiatives, we must continue to build upon these efforts. As citizens, we can advocate for increased funding and resources for mental health support. Whether it's improving access to counseling, mental health helplines, or community support groups, our collective voice can make a significant impact on those who may be silently struggling.
Let us commit ourselves to raising mental health awareness and dismantling the stigma associated with mental illness. Misunderstandings and myths surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. By promoting open and compassionate conversations, we can foster an environment where people feel comfortable discussing their mental health and seeking support without fear of judgment.
For free mental health services, you may check out this list of resources from HealthHub.
Nurturing Mental Health in Schools
The younger generation is the future of our nation, and we must invest in their mental well-being. Schools play a crucial role in shaping the mental health of students. By incorporating mental health education into the curriculum and fostering a supportive learning environment, we can equip our teachers and youth leaders with the tools to navigate life's challenges and stressors through engaging in Psychological First Aid training. It is a training program that will equip individuals with skills for psychosocial support among co-workers and peers.
Promoting Work-Life Balance
In our fast-paced society, striking a healthy work-life balance is crucial for mental well-being. As we celebrate National Day, let us advocate for workplace policies that prioritize employee mental health. Encouraging flexible working arrangements, offering mental health resources, and promoting regular breaks can contribute to a more mentally healthy and productive workforce.
We can also show support to our employees by providing Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), specifically Mental Health Coaching, wherein employees could have a one-on-one consultation with a mental health professional. By being good listeners and offering empathy, we can positively impact someone's mental well-being.
Mental Health First Aid is crucial to our approach to mental health in Singapore. It involves understanding the early signs and symptoms of mental health issues and knowing how to provide help.
Leveraging Technology for Mental Health
In the digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in our lives. It has transformed how we communicate, work, and even seek help. As we continue to navigate through the complexities of mental health, technology can serve as a powerful tool.
Digital platforms can provide mental health support in various ways. They can offer online therapy sessions, mental health apps, and virtual support groups. These platforms can provide immediate assistance, especially for those who may not have easy access to in-person services. They also offer the convenience of seeking help from the comfort of one’s home, making mental health services more accessible and less intimidating.
Moreover, technology can aid in mental health awareness. Social media platforms can be used to share educational content, personal stories, and resources related to mental health. They can help normalize conversations about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with it.
The Role of Community Support
Community support is a vital component of mental health. It involves creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel understood and accepted. It’s about fostering empathy, understanding, and mutual respect.
Community support can come in various forms - it could be a friend lending an ear, a family member offering encouragement, or a support group providing a safe space to share experiences. It could also involve larger initiatives like community workshops, public talks, and awareness campaigns.
Let us remember that we are a community that cares for one another. Small acts of kindness and reaching out to those in need can make a significant difference in someone's mental health journey. By building a compassionate and supportive community, we create a safety net that encourages individuals to seek help when they need it.
This year, let us unite with a renewed focus on promoting mental health. In a world full of challenges and uncertainties, nurturing our mental well-being is essential for our individual and collective progress. Through a united effort to prioritize mental health, we can march onward as one, creating a healthier, happier, and more vibrant Singapore.
Happy National Day!