Checking In: How to Support Your Loved Ones' Mental Wellbeing (SG Edition)
2025-05-12
Premier League
It's Mental Health Awareness Week, and it's a crucial time to reflect on the wellbeing of ourselves and those around us. Many Singaporeans struggle with mental health challenges, often in silence. Knowing how to approach a loved one who might be struggling can be daunting, but it's a vital step in providing support. This guide offers practical tactics and expert advice, tailored for the Singaporean context, to help you check in with your loved ones and offer meaningful assistance.
Why is Checking In Important?
Mental health isn't always visible. Someone might be outwardly functioning well but inwardly battling anxiety, depression, or other challenges. Regular check-ins demonstrate care and create a safe space for open communication. In Singapore's fast-paced environment and culture of resilience, it's especially important to actively reach out and ensure those around us aren’t silently suffering.
Tactics for a Meaningful Check-In
- Choose the Right Time and Place: Avoid rushed conversations. Select a quiet, comfortable setting where you can both focus without distractions. A casual coffee date or a walk in a park can be less intimidating than a formal sit-down.
- Start with Open-Ended Questions: Instead of asking “Are you okay?”, try “How are you *really* doing?” or “What’s been on your mind lately?”. This encourages a more detailed response.
- Listen Actively and Without Judgement: The most important thing is to *listen*. Focus on understanding their perspective, not offering immediate solutions. Validate their feelings by saying things like, “That sounds really tough” or “I can understand why you’d feel that way.”
- Avoid Minimizing or Dismissing Their Feelings: Phrases like “Just think positive” or “It could be worse” are unhelpful and can make someone feel unheard.
- Offer Specific Support: Instead of a generic “Let me know if you need anything,” offer concrete help. “Would you like me to help you with groceries this week?” or “I’m happy to go for a walk with you whenever you need it.”
- Respect Their Boundaries: If they don't want to talk, don't push it. Let them know you’re there for them when they're ready.
- Be Aware of Cultural Nuances: In Singapore, there can be a stigma around mental health. Be sensitive to this and approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Recognize that some individuals may be hesitant to share due to cultural expectations or fear of judgment.
When to Seek Professional Help
It's important to recognise when a situation requires professional intervention. Encourage your loved one to seek help if they are experiencing any of the following:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Significant changes in sleep or appetite
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Resources in Singapore
Here are some valuable resources available in Singapore:
- National Care Hotline: 1800-200-0000
- Singapore Crisis Helpline: 1800-221-4444
- Institute of Mental Health (IMH): https://www.imh.gov.sg/
- Samaritans of Singapore: https://www.sosg.org.sg/
- Mental Wellbeing Matters Website: https://www.mentalwellbeingmatters.sg/
Taking Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with mental health challenges can be emotionally draining. Remember to prioritize your own wellbeing. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let's make a conscious effort to check in with our loved ones and create a more supportive and understanding community in Singapore.
