STORY (^) JASMINE TEO
mental health issues: “Mental issues are very prevalent
in today’s modern society. There’s a lot of pressure ’cos
everything is out there, or because social media is so
new that I don’t think we have a good grasp on putting
ourselves out there.”
Read between the lines.
Says Dr Chan: “Many young adults tend
to withdraw from their family and friends,
as they try to work it out alone, or as they
do not want their loved ones to worry.
Furthermore, with withdrawal, conflicts
with peers and parents are never addressed and this
can be a continued source of stress.”
Talk about it.
Stef opens up about her personal
experience: “Mental issues can also
occur in different stages [in life]. I
remember feeling very isolated and
overwhelmed when I couldn’t cope
with my work. I definitely think I had
a period of depression so I feel that it is very important
to be able to talk about it freely.” So what do you do?
Dr Chan advises: “If you suspect a loved one to be
suffering from depression or any mental health issue,
provide support by showing concern and initiating a
conversation. After starting the conversation, give your
loved one enough time and space to talk, and listen
as much as you can. If your loved one is not ready to
talk, offer to talk another time, or let them know they
can come to you when they are ready. Even if they don’t
share much, just spending time together assures them
that you care. After understanding what your loved one
is experiencing, gently suggest the possibility of seeing
a professional.”
But keep in mind what not to say.
Says Stef: “[Having mental issues]
definitely [doesn’t mean] that this
person is weak or useless. These are
words that we should not be saying
because many a time, it is only a phase
that people go through. We should all
be aware that people go through phases
and that every day is a brand new start.”
Catch Stefanie Sun at Voice Out! Concert in the Park on Oct 7,
at the Singapore Botanic Gardens (Shaw Foundation Symphony
Stage), 4.30pm. For more info, go to http://www.facebook.com/
wmhd2017.
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