May stands as a pivotal month globally, designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. The aim of Mental Health Awareness Month is to shed light on the challenges faced by millions, encourage open dialogue, and dismantle the stigma associated with mental illnesses.
Local Mental Health Initiatives:
In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health has gained momentum, with increasing efforts to destigmatize mental illnesses and promote overall well-being. The Singapore government has launched the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy (2023) to work towards improving the mental health ecosystem. This initiative ensures that people with mental health needs can seek help without stigma and are readily supported for their recovery.
The key thrust of the strategy is to tackle the issue coherently and holistically, from preventive and curative perspectives. It covers four focus areas: (1) expanding the capacity of mental health services; (2) enhancing capabilities of service providers for early identification and intervention; (3) promoting mental health and well-being; and (4) improving workplace mental health and well-being.
In addition, the Health Promotion Board (HPB) has run public education campaigns such as “It’s OKAY to Reach Out.” The National Council of Social Service (NCSS) introduced the ‘Beyond the Label’ (BTL) movement in 2018 to address mental health stigma. The BTL Collective was started in 2022, in partnership with TOUCH Community Services, to rally partners from the public, private, and people sectors to strengthen support for persons with mental health conditions. The Workplace Safety and Health Council also rolled out the ‘Take Time to Take Care’ campaign in 2021 to promote mental well-being at the workplace.
There is No Health Without Mental Health:
Mental health is an integral component of our health and overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and act. Unfortunately, mental health issues affect a significant portion of the global population, transcending age, gender, and socio-economic status.
Despite the government’s effort in prioritising mental health, deconstructing stigma around help-seeking is still a work in progress. Stigma or perceived stigma from society is often a significant cause of shame and isolation, delaying or preventing help-seeking further. The more we talk about mental health openly and foster a culture of empathy and understanding, the more we can create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable seeking assistance without fear of judgement. For example, use your platforms to share resources about available services, therapy options, and support networks.
Community Involvement and Advocacy:
When we share mental health-related topics openly, we become allies or a community for someone struggling with mental health issues. Communities play a crucial role in fostering mental health awareness. From organising activities (e.g., self-care practices such as mindfulness, group exercise) to sharing personal stories of vulnerability and resilience (e.g., maintaining a healthy work-life balance), communities become a driving force in reducing stigma and promoting self-care to nurture one’s mental health.
Supporting Loved Ones:
Beyond individual self-care, supporting loved ones navigating mental health challenges is also a crucial process. As allies, it is important to first educate ourselves about mental health issues, try listening without judgement, and offer support in the way they are able to receive at that juncture of their life.
Conclusion:
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder that mental health is a shared responsibility on a community level as well as a national level. By fostering understanding, breaking down stigma, and widening access to resources, we can create communities where mental well-being is truly prioritised. As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, let us commit to ongoing conversations, support, and advocacy to create a nation where everyone can thrive in their physical, mental, and emotional health.
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.