However, stigma remains a concern—66% of respondents in a CNA survey expressed worries about the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
SINGAPORE: Experts report that Singaporeans are increasingly open to learning about mental health and seeking help. However, misconceptions surrounding the topic still persist.
They highlight the crucial role played by the media, government agencies, and advocacy groups in raising awareness about mental health among Singaporeans, especially youth. This growing awareness has led to more individuals seeking help.
“With this increased awareness, there’s also more willingness to come forward to seek treatment,” says Dr. Lim Choon Guan from the Institute of Mental Health (IMH). “The youth today are more willing to seek mental health help, as are their parents.”
Dr. Lim, a senior consultant and deputy chief at IMH’s Department of Developmental Psychiatry, notes an uptick in queries from students eager to explore mental health topics for their A-level projects. It’s not just teenagers who are interested; a graded elective on mental health he teaches at Nanyang Technological University has been oversubscribed every semester. Furthermore, residency enrolment for psychiatry training at IMH has seen overwhelming interest.
Not Enough Avenues for Learning
Despite the rising interest, many people are unsure where to find reliable information, according to Porsche Poh, executive director of Silver Ribbon. “A lot of people want to learn more, but there aren’t enough platforms for them to share,” Ms. Poh tells CNA.
While discussions about mental health on social media can raise awareness, they can also lead to mental health shaming. Ms. Poh recalls a time when she saw someone joking about a mental health issue. “I appealed to the person, saying, ‘You wouldn’t joke like that if it were your loved one,’ but the individual just ignored me and claimed I was being sensitive.”
There is still a long way to go before the community becomes more compassionate and sensitive towards individuals with mental health challenges. A CNA survey found that 66% of respondents expressed concern about the stigma associated with mental health.
Silver Ribbon has sought creative ways to spread its message and initiate conversations. The organization has partnered with the theatre group The Necessary Stage for productions like Off Centre and Acting Mad, which offer honest portrayals of mental illness and its stigma. During these performances, Silver Ribbon volunteers act as mental health responders for audience members affected by the themes presented.
“There’s a need to customize our events according to different target audiences to capture their attention and provide platforms for everyone to discuss mental health,” Ms. Poh states, ensuring that people know where to seek help and how to refer loved ones.
Misconceptions and Stigma Surrounding Mental Health
Although awareness is improving, experts say misconceptions still exist, which can deter individuals from seeking help. “It’s common to hear young patients or parents ask if being diagnosed with a mental illness means they will need to take medication, and if those medications will be lifelong,” Dr. Lim explains.
He emphasizes that treatment does not always involve medication, as effective psychological therapies exist for many conditions. Even when medication is necessary, it is rarely required for life.
Dr. Lim adds that sensationalized portrayals of individuals with mental illness in the media can mislead the public into viewing them as dangerous or violent. “In fact, most individuals with mental illnesses are not aggressive, violent, or dangerous. Many yearn to lead normal lives, and with proper treatment, they can achieve that,” he says.
As more information becomes available and misconceptions fade, the landscape is improving.
Dr. Lim cites a shift in parental attitudes, noting that parents who once hesitated to seek medical certificates from IMH due to fear of stigma are now more open. “Some parents used to worry that their child would be ostracized by friends or teachers if they sought help. However, schools today offer much more support, and parents are more willing to share information.”
Where to Get Help
Samaritans of Singapore Hotline: 1767
Institute of Mental Health Helpline: 6389 2222
Singapore Association for Mental Health Helpline: 1800 283 7019
For immediate risks, please call 24-hour emergency medical services. You can also find a list of international helplines here.
By focusing on increasing awareness and combating stigma, Singaporeans can better understand mental health and support those in need.
