Mental Wellness of Young Working Adults in Singapore

An online survey conducted from Jan 23 to Feb 6 this year revealed some worrying trends about the mental health of Singaporeans. The survey involved 1,000 people who were either working or had worked in the past six months and who lived in Singapore. The results showed that while there was a slight improvement in the overall mental health index score from 60.5 in September last year to 61.6 in January this year, more than a third (37 per cent) of the respondents had a high risk of mental health problems and almost half (46 per cent) had a moderate risk.

One of the most concerning findings was that 40 per cent of the respondents reported avoiding social interactions or being with others, a behaviour that either started or worsened since the Covid-19 pandemic. This group had a much lower mental health score of 50.8, compared to the national average of 61.6.

It is clear that the pandemic has taken a toll on the mental well-being of many Singaporeans, especially the younger ones. According to another study by the National University of Singapore, about one in three youth aged 11 to 18 has experienced internalising mental health symptoms such as sadness, anxiety and loneliness.

However, many people still hesitate to seek professional help from counsellors or therapists due to stigma, fear or lack of awareness. This is unfortunate, as getting timely and appropriate support can make a big difference in one’s recovery and quality of life.

In this blog post, I will discuss why we should break the stigma of seeking professional help for mental health issues and how we can do so as a society.

Mental Health Stigma in Singapore

Mental health is an important part of overall health, and just like physical health, it can be affected by a variety of factors, including stress, trauma, and genetics. Mental health issues can range from mild to severe, and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status.

In Singapore, there is still a stigma associated with seeking professional help for mental health issues. This stigma can make it difficult for people to get the help they need, and can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and despair.

There are many reasons why people may be reluctant to seek professional help for mental health issues. Some people may believe that mental health issues are a sign of weakness, while others may be afraid of being judged or stigmatized. Still others may not know where to turn for help, or may not be able to afford it.

Whatever the reason, the stigma of mental health can have a devastating impact on people’s lives. It can prevent people from getting the help they need, and can lead to a worsening of their symptoms. In some cases, the stigma of mental health can even lead to suicide.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

There are a number of things that we can do as a society to break the stigma of mental health. One important step is to educate people about mental health issues. We need to dispel the myths and stereotypes about mental illness, and to show that mental health issues are just as real and serious as physical health issues.

We also need to make it easier for people to get the help they need. This means providing more affordable and accessible mental health services, and making sure that people know where to turn for help.

Finally, we need to create a more supportive environment for people with mental health issues. This means being understanding and compassionate, and not judging people for their mental health challenges.

Breaking the stigma of mental health is not easy, but it is important. By working together, we can create a society where everyone feels comfortable seeking help for their mental health needs.

Here are some specific things that we can do to break the stigma of mental health in Singapore:

Talk about mental health: The more we talk about mental health, the less stigmatized it will become. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about mental health issues. Share your own experiences, and listen to the experiences of others.
Challenge stereotypes: When you hear someone make a negative comment about mental health, challenge it. Point out the facts, and explain that mental health issues are just as real and serious as physical health issues.
Support people with mental health issues: If you know someone who is struggling with a mental health issue, offer your support. Let them know that you are there for them, and that you believe in them.
Get involved in mental health advocacy: There are many organizations working to break the stigma of mental health in Singapore. Get involved in one of these organizations, and help them to raise awareness and promote understanding.

By working together, we can create a society where everyone feels comfortable seeking help for their mental health needs.