The 10th of October is World Mental Health Day.
It was first commemorated in 1992, making 2022 the 30th year it has been running. The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world, to destigmatise these
conversations, and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health. It is an opportunity for us to share resources and increase the visibility of great organisations working to improve the mental health landscape by providing help and educating people.
The World Health Organisation’s theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day is “Make mental health and well-being for all a global priority". Specifically, it talks about how the pandemic has been a universally difficult time for everyone. Quoting the WHO, COVID-19 has “created a global crisis for mental health, fueling short- and long-term stresses and undermining the mental health of millions”. The restriction, loss and fear characteristic of our experiences during the pandemic has only brought greater and more persistent anxiety. An extreme jump in the estimates for anxiety and depressive disorders make this even more evident.
The pandemic has been somewhat of an equalising event in that, perhaps for the first time, the world has collectively experienced a severe shock to its economy and healthcare systems. However, it has also illuminated vast differences in privilege and access to resources. While we are all facing an exacerbation of mental health struggles, the extent to which we are able to mitigate these issues is still largely unequal. This year, the focus is on providing better and more readily available resources to everyone.
Here are some things you can check out to support World Mental Health Day in Singapore:
1. Gifting Mental Health: An Arts Workshop
A complementary programme to Let’s Talk, Gifting Mental Health “invites participants to create a three-dimensional artwork that addresses the significance of mental health and wellness, and one’s own commitment to emotional awareness, safety and self-care.”
2. Re:Ground @ Dungeon Sensory Series: Singing Bowls
Hosted by our community partner Youth Corps Singapore, the Dungeon Sensory Series hosts different themed nights focusing on self-care activities and mental wellness. The Tibetan singing bowls session aims to help you relax, relieve your stress and uplift your spirits. Join for a night of relaxation and calm!
3. Conversations at Dusk 2.0
Another project by Youth Corps Singapore, Conversations at Dusk is organised specifically to commemorate World Mental Health Day. Participants are able to enjoy a cosy evening of self-care, and speak candidly about mental health with like minded youths.
4. Phasing It 4.0 Next Station: Unknown
Youth Corps Singapore is also hosting the 4th edition of Phasing It. Focusing on discussions about feeling lost and navigating the ups and downs of youth, participants have the opportunity to listen to insightful sharings by speakers, and learn about how to better cope with turmoil and turbulence in their journey through life.
5. The Limitless Run 2022
Limitless organises The Limitless Run every year to raise funds for their provision of counselling services to youths in need of mental health treatment. Simply register and run to get the finisher’s medal and help bolster access to mental health support in Singapore!
6. Mental: Colours of Wellbeing @ Art Science Museum
As part of their season of mental health, the Art Science museum has curated an exhibition featuring 24 interactive exhibits, art projects and large-scale installations by international artists, makers, scientists and designers. The works reflect the diversity in how we all interact with and think about mental health, highlighting that mental health is an innately personal and intimate journey on which we embark as part of our relationships with ourselves.
It often seems difficult in Singapore to foster meaningful or open conversation about mental health - we are often told, especially as youths, that we should simply toughen up or sweep it under the rug. It is not uncommon to hear of youths being afraid or hesitant to speak candidly about the struggles they face, often citing a lack of understanding and support from others or a fear of jeopardising their own futures due to employment stigma.
Taking care of your mental health should never be seen as a burden, an afterthought or a luxury. Destigmatising the subject of mental health starts with turning off self-judgement, and moving towards acceptance and self-care.