Mental wellness:

• Proactive and ongoing process: It's not just the absence of mental illness, but actively taking steps to nourish and enhance your mental health.

• Focus on resilience and growth: It involves building coping mechanisms, emotional intelligence, and the ability to bounce back from challenges.

The statement "addiction is not a mental health issue" is a myth. 

• World Health Organization (WHO), which classifies addiction as a mental and behavioral disorder in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).

• Brain changes: Addiction is associated with changes in the brain's reward system, making it difficult for individuals to control their cravings and use of the addictive substance.

• Genetic factors: People with a family history of addiction are more likely to develop addiction themselves, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder.

1. Stress:

• Definition: Stress is a natural response to the demands and challenges of life. It's the body's way of preparing for or reacting to threats.

2. Anxiety:

• Definition: Anxiety is an intense feeling of worry, nervousness, or apprehension about future events. It can be triggered by real or perceived threats.

3. Depression:

• Definition: Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and hopelessness. It can significantly interfere with daily life.

Mental health assistance encompasses various resources and support available to individuals experiencing emotional or mental challenges. It prioritises accessibility, providing immediate help and guidance without requiring extensive wait times or complex procedures. 

Talk to someone you trust somewhat help to lessen the impact of loneliness.

• Friends and family: Sharing your struggles with supportive loved ones can provide a safe space to vent, gain perspective, and feel understood.

Here are some additional tips for seeking first-level mental health assistance:

• Start small: Take your time tackling everything. Begin with a single step, like calling a helpline or scheduling an appointment with your doctor.

• Be open and honest: Sharing your true feelings and experiences is essential for receiving practical help.

• Keep going: Finding the proper support may take time. Be patient and explore different options until you find what works for you.

• Counselling: Counselling is a talk therapy. Sometimes it help to go deep to listen, learn and understand more to know more. Often focused on specific issues like grief, relationships, or career choices.

Self-help groups and support groups can offer many benefits for individuals facing a variety of challenges, from chronic health conditions to mental health struggles to life transitions. 

Key benefits:

Emotional Support:

• Reduced isolation and loneliness: Sharing your experiences with others who understand what you're going through can help you feel less alone and isolated. You can build a sense of community and belonging amongst people who empathize with your situation.

Practical Support:

• Shared knowledge and resources: Group members can share their knowledge of coping strategies, resources, and helpful tools that have worked for them. This can provide valuable insights and guidance for your approach to managing your challenge.

Personal Growth:

• Increased self-awareness: By sharing your experiences and listening to others, you can better understand yourself and your strengths and weaknesses. This self-awareness can be invaluable for personal growth and development.

Mental Wellbeing Agencies

• Resilience Collective (RC) 
• Project Green Ribbon (PGR)

Addiction Recovery

• Agent of Change (AOC)
• Reforming Support Group (RSG)
• Goal Aspiration (GA)
• Emerging Hearts (EH)

National Care Hotline: 1800-202-6868 

(8am-12am)

Mental Well-being

- SAMH (1800-283-7019)

- Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline (6389-2222)

- Samaritans of Singapore (1800-221-4444)