While open communication about mental health is becoming more common, seeking help remains an important step towards maintaining good mental health. Just as you would seek medical attention for a physical illness, by reaching out for support, you can develop healthy coping mechanisms, strengthen your relationships, and ultimately experience a more fulfilling life.
Now, we understand if some of you are hesitant to seek help. It is daunting and it requires courage and commitment. Nevertheless, we can’t stress how important it is to get the help that you need.
What Are the Signs You May Require Help?
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all experience emotional dips or periods of stress. But how can you tell when these feelings turn into something more significant that might require further help? The first thing you’ll want to be on the lookout for is changes in your mood. Feeling persistently low, hopeless, or irritable, or experiencing dramatic mood swings, could be signs of depression or anxiety.
You’ll also want to pay attention to your sleep patterns and eating habits. Significant changes in your sleep patterns or eating habits can be indicators of underlying mental health issues. If you find that you’re not getting enough sleep or notice that you’ve begun to lose your appetite, you may want to consider reaching out to a mental health professional.
Lastly, if you experience thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life, please reach out for help immediately. You are not alone, and there is help available.
Prioritising Your Mental Wellbeing and Mental Health
So why is asking for help important for mental health? Firstly, seeking help allows you to connect with qualified professionals who can provide guidance and support. Therapists can equip you with tools to manage stress, navigate difficult emotions, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Early intervention is especially important, as it can prevent problems from escalating and improve your overall quality of life.
Secondly, mental health issues can also lead to other health complications. Illnesses like depression can cause fatigue and sleep problems, which can lead to somatic symptoms that affect your physical health as well. In fact, the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlights the link between mental well-being and physical health. Research has found that depression can make individuals more susceptible to illnesses like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory complications.
Lastly, asking for help combats the stigma surrounding mental health. By openly discussing your struggles, you contribute to a more supportive and understanding society. This normalises seeking help and encourages others to prioritise their mental well-being.
Seeking Help for Mental Health
Based on data collected by the Ministry of Health, the prevalence of poor mental health has been on the rise in Singapore, particularly among young adults. And while it’s true that mental health has worsened, there are increasingly more avenues where one can gain access to mental health support.
For example, organisations like Safe Expanse are trained to provide psychotherapy, counselling, and coaching for a wide variety of issues, including but not limited to trauma, marital conflict, depression and stress management.
Similarly, there are a number of support groups in Singapore that cater to individuals struggling with their mental health. Groups like the Resilience Collective organise peer support groups that aim to create a safe space where people can discuss their experiences and hear from those who are on a similar journey.
You’ll want to be thorough when selecting a professional to work with ensuring they are a good fit for you. Consider your goals, preferences, and any specific issues or challenges you want to address.
Navigating through all the available options can be tedious; it helps to consult reviews or testimonials from previous clients. The reviews can provide valuable insights in helping you choose a service that aligns with your goals.
At present, Singaporeans can receive subsidies of up to 80% for mental health services at public hospitals and polyclinics. Unfortunately, the current professional to patient ratio in the country’s public health system is low at 8.3 psychologists per 100,000 people. Which means it can take up to 27 days for a patient to see a psychologist for therapy or consultation. For a patient in distress, this would not be ideal. Thankfully waiting times are generally shorter within the private sector, taking anywhere between a day and a week.
Conclusion
Just like our physical health, our mental well-being needs attention and care. Remember, seeking help when we’re struggling is a sign of strength, not weakness. Asking for help can be the first step on the path to feeling better and regaining control of your mental health. Therapists can provide a safe and supportive space to talk through your challenges and develop coping mechanisms. They can also offer guidance and support as you navigate life’s inevitable hurdles.
Reaching out for support is an investment in your overall well-being. By taking that first step, you’re choosing to prioritise your mental health and build a brighter future. You’re also demonstrating courage and resilience in the face of difficulty.
If you or someone you know are considering seeking help for mental health, Safe Expanse is here to help. Our therapists are dedicated to providing a safe space to help all our patients get the mental health care that they need. Click here to book a session with us today.