SINGAPORE: The number of Singapore youngsters seeking help for mental health issues shot up by 10 per cent last year, according to a recently released report by the community support team of the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).
The IMH team reported that 2,452 young individuals sought assistance last year, up 10% from the previous year. A striking 90% of these cases utilized online platforms for help.
In response to this rising demand, IMH is expanding its efforts by recruiting more young volunteers.
The volunteers, part of the Singapore Youth Excellence Mental Health Teaching and Research Center, are pivotal in promoting mental health awareness and support among their peers.
One of the key initiatives led by these volunteers is the introduction of mental health cards. These cards, designed and launched by the volunteers, have been distributed to over 10,000 young people in need.
The cards serve as educational tools and practical guides, offering information on mental health resources, self-care tips, and emergency contacts.
The mental health cards are more than just informational pamphlets; they are designed to be a lifeline for young people struggling in silence, providing immediate access to vital resources and encouraging young people to seek help when needed.
These volunteers act as partners in mental health advocacy, functioning as bridges between the professional services psychologists offer and the community.
They engage in outreach activities, visiting schools to talk with students, teachers, and even the broader public about the importance of mental health and seeking support.
Helping to break down barriers that might prevent young people from seeking help, they connect those in need with the appropriate services and provide feedback to mental health professionals, ensuring that services are timely and relevant.
The centre specifically recruits volunteers aged 16 to 30 to ensure a better understanding and connection with the young demographic they serve.
These volunteers are passionate about mental health advocacy and contribute to shaping the centre’s strategies and services.
This year, the centre received 30 applications and typically accepts between 8 and 12 volunteers annually. The selection process is rigorous, and once admitted, volunteers are required to commit to at least nine months of service.
They undergo structured on-the-job training that includes project management, mental health literacy, and peer assistance.
Integrating young volunteers into the IMH’s outreach has already shown positive outcomes. Volunteers provide essential feedback from their interactions in the field, helping to refine and enhance the centre’s services.
Their work is seen as a vital component in addressing Singapore’s youth’s evolving mental health needs.
Looking ahead, the IMH plans to continue expanding its volunteer base and initiatives to keep pace with the growing demand for mental health services among young people.
The centre aims to strengthen its outreach and support mechanisms, ensuring all young individuals can access the help they need. /TISG