There is little doubt that mental health is vital for our overall well-being given the rise of mental health awareness in Singapore.
In fact, there are more and more people becoming “mental health ambassadors”, i.e. people who take on the role of an advocate and educator to promote awareness, understanding, and support for mental health and well-being.
The Importance of Being Informed
There are many reasons why we need to be informed and educated regarding various mental health issues, the early signs and symptoms, available treatment and resources for help-seeking. Some of these reasons include:
1. The Need for Early Detection and Intervention of Mental Illnesses
As with any medical condition, early detection and treatment can increase positive outcomes. This is the same for mental illness.
Our knowledge of common signs and symptoms of mental illness and our ability to recognise them can help us to identify and reach out to those in distress around us timely.
2. The Importance of Reducing the Stigma of Mental Illness
Despite the rise of mental health awareness, the stigma against mental illness remains strong. As a result, people in distress tend to conceal and suppress their negative emotions for fear of being stigmatised and negatively judged.
When we show that we understand their concerns, and are willing to support them, we can play a part in breaking down the stigma towards mental illness.
3. The Ability to Empower Us to Support Others
Our knowledge of strategies on how to be empathetic and provide emotional support to those in distress can empower us to have the confidence to reach out and support those around us who are suffering, especially those who are dear to us.
When we are able to support them, we can help to improve their quality of life. Additionally, this can also add meaning and purpose in our lives which helps us to feel good.
4. The Ability to Better Care For Our Mental Well-Being
Mental illness does not discriminate, and anyone can be affected.
By keeping ourselves well-informed, we can be better at self-monitoring and exercising self-care to take care of our own mental well-being so that we can be in a better position to help others.
Where to Find Relevant Resources?
Explore our range of mental health articles at https://pulseallied.health/articles/, or use our Q & A portal AskPULSE https://askpulse.sg/ to speak with our resident psychologist.
Alternatively, you may also refer to our list of emergency hotlines:
SOS – 1-767
SAMH – 1800-283-7019
CHAT – 6493-6500 / 6501
