When it comes to counselling, Singapore has come a long way. Find out how counselling in Singapore has evolved and how it can benefit you and your loved ones.
The subject of mental health is a staple of today’s conversations in Singapore today. Driven by initiatives such as the government’s National Mental Health Blueprint in 2017 - which outlines a comprehensive strategy to strengthen mental health infrastructure - there is increased awareness on the topic and channels to receive help from.
While this was already growing before 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a catalyst in driving mental well-being to the forefront of considerations. Because of this, the stigma that was once associated with therapies like counselling, is also increasingly being dismantled in Singapore.
This is important because Singapore’s economic stability runs upon a very competitive environment, and these measures need to be in place to safeguard mental well-being. As the pressures of modern life continue to impact individuals, avenues to mitigate the effects are required, and counselling is emerging as a crucial pillar in Singapore's mental health landscape.
How Does Counselling Help?
Counselling is a therapeutic process that provides individuals with a safe and confidential space to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. While talking to loved ones and friends is helpful, it can sometimes carry a bias (both positive and negative) - one which an individual may find difficult to work with.
Talking to a trained counsellor can provide a neutral “stranger” to unburden one’s thoughts on, especially when it comes to more difficult or sensitive subjects. It also carries the benefit of helping one gain insights, develop coping mechanisms, and even foster positive changes towards personal goals in their lives.
Why is There a Stigma to Seeking Counselling in Singapore
Attitudes towards counselling are changing, but it is important to understand the reason for its stigma so as to further dismantle it.
As a relatively young country which had little resources, there was a strong priority for early Singaporeans to work hard and provide. Meritocracy was championed and many saw the results of that wisdom, and the country made remarkable progress - one much-lauded on the international stage.
However, this competitive environment also magnified mistakes and failures, and in a predominantly Asian setting, this was commonly seen as a defect of the individual. Seeking help was also regarded as a last resort and carried the connotation of negative mental illness. The prevailing belief that discussing mental health concerns is a sign of weakness hindered many from seeking the support they need.
Thankfully, this has changed significantly in recent years, which is important as counselling plays a crucial role in early intervention and prevention of mental health issues. By talking to experienced counsellors, one can defuse and think through difficult situations, while the trained professionals can identify warning signs before they escalate into more severe conditions.
This applies not just to a particular segment but to everyone living in Singapore. Each segment has their area of concern and it is important to weigh in counselling for each of the following groups.
For The Aged
As with many other developed countries, Singapore is facing a rapidly-ageing populace. It is not uncommon for the elderly to find difficulty connecting with the younger generations, and their limited mobility may hamper physical activities. Some become isolated and can fall into depression, and others may fall into dementia more quickly with limited interactions. On top of loneliness and immobility, they may also struggle with the stress of navigating an increasingly digital world. While this may not seem like much for younger groups, the elderly may feel their daily tasks become more of a chore in some cases.
Counselling can provide a steady listener to their problems, and keep them cognizant of their actions and impact. More importantly, counsellors can help them navigate personal relationships and ensure that family and friends stay in good stead, and help them keep a healthy social life and rewarding engagements.
For Students
Needless to say, Singapore’s education system - often touted as one of the best in the world - is also a highly stressful environment. From a packed curriculum that requires students to be well-rounded, to a system that may not be as forgiving to non-academic types, there are many students who find themselves struggling with their self-worth.
Early intervention is especially important here, and luckily, counselling services in schools have become an essential part of the educational system in Singapore. School-based counsellors can work closely with students to address academic stress, peer pressure, and family-related concerns. Over time, they can also help nurture emotional resilience in young individuals, and equip them with valuable coping skills that can positively impact their overall development.
For Working Adults
Needless to say, the stresses of working life are most significantly seen in adults. Tasked with upkeeping the household, and saving for anything from holidays and emergencies to retirement, it’s easy to see why they can feel trapped in a running wheel.
In the last few years, many industries have also been impacted by the swift, unforeseen changes that have transpired. First it was the pandemic and digitalisation, and now AI is threatening jobs as well. With job security at risk and inflation on the rise, it can be overwhelming for individuals trying to keep the stability they once knew.
Counsellors can bring in a sense of relief from the stressors, and help nullify the worst of situations dealing with office politics, work fulfilment and family responsibilities. They can also provide a reality check, allowing these individuals to step out of the situation to gain perspective on their priorities.
For Expats
Singapore welcomes foreign workers in many sectors, and as a prosperous and safe country to work in, it is an attractive destination. But moving to a foreign land carries with it the stress of adaptation, and some of these may be challenging to overcome.
Expats working in Singapore may have to quickly adjust themselves to local norms, and this can range from ordering a drink at your local kopitiam, to navigating the city’s transport. If coming from a very different culture, there may be incidents where one offends another accidentally, and make social interactions a cautious affair.
Counsellors can not only help with these adjustments, but as people who have most likely lived in Singapore for a while, can help expats make sense of the many workings in the society. This can also be extremely helpful if one has moved with their family, and finds oneself as a proxy to helping the household adapt to their new home in Singapore.
Counselling is a wonderful tool to help one mitigate life’s stresses. Seek out a trusted professional and learn more about counselling at The Counselling Place.
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