Growing Pains

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As we welcome the year 2024, the issue of mental health among Singapore’s youth is more pressing than ever. A recent study by the National University of Singapore (NUS) has found that one in 10 teenagers in our nation suffers from at least one mental health disorder. This study, which surveyed over 3,300 adolescents, also revealed that a significant number of youths are turning to digital media as a form of self-therapy. Additionally, the study highlighted a crucial need for improved mental health literacy among parents.

These findings add urgency to the issue of teenage depression, especially as we embark on a new school year. This article aims to delve into the complexities of teenage depression in Singapore, emphasising the critical importance of early intervention and community support.

ADJUSTING TO A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

The start of a new school year is a period of significant transition for children and teenagers. New schools, new classes and new friends bring about changes that can be both exciting and stressful. While some level of anxiety and mood fluctuation is normal and expected, it is crucial for parents to be vigilant. Persistent and/or intense emotional ups and downs during this period could be signs of deeper issues like depression, which would require further investigation and possibly professional intervention. Understanding the difference between normal stress and potential signs of depression is vital for early detection and treatment.

DIFFERENTIATING NORMAL STRESS FROM DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS

The start of a new school year brings its own set of stressors that can impact a child’s emotional well-being. Being in a different environment, facing the pressure to make new friends while possibly losing old ones, and adapting to new teachers and academic challenges can all contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. However, it is important to recognise that not all stress or mood swings are indicative of a depressive disorder.

Normal stress often arises from these specific situations and usually subsides as the child adjusts to the new setting. Symptoms like temporary mood swings, mild sleep disturbances, or short-term changes in appetite are often related to these transitional challenges and should not immediately be a cause for alarm.

In contrast, symptoms of depressive disorders are more pervasive and persistent, affecting multiple areas of life for an extended period, often for more than two weeks. These may include sustained changes in eating and sleeping patterns, withdrawal from friends and activities, and a decline in academic performance. Unlike normal stress, depressive symptoms often lack a specific trigger and may be accompanied by feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

RISING DEPRESSION AMONG YOUTHS

The increasing prevalence of depression among Singapore’s youth is a multi-faceted issue with a range of contributing factors. One of the most significant is intense academic pressure, often exacerbated by high societal expectations. Interestingly, this pressure is not solely external. Many youths internalise these expectations, placing immense pressure on themselves to meet high academic standards, even when parents and teachers may not explicitly demand it.

The role of social media is another crucial factor. While it offers a platform for connection and self-expression, it also has a darker side. The constant exposure to curated lives can lead to unhealthy comparisons, affecting self-esteem and body image. Cyberbullying is another significant concern, with the anonymity of the internet providing a shield for harmful behaviour. The emotional toll from cyberbullying can be severe, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression.

Additionally, the fast-paced lifestyle and competitive nature of Singaporean society can contribute to emotional distress. The constant race to “keep up” can lead to burnout and feelings of inadequacy, further fuelling the cycle of depression.

ROLE OF PARENTS IN ADDRESSING YOUTH DEPRESSION

Understanding the root causes of depression is one of the first steps parents can take in offering effective support to their children. Open communication is crucial. A strong parent-child relationship can encourage your child to share their feelings and concerns openly. This open dialogue can serve as an early warning system, helping to identify symptoms of depression before they escalate.

It is important for parents to recognise that adolescence is a time of individualisation and identity formation. Behind the symptoms and behavioural issues is a teenager trying to find his/her own place in the world. This process can be emotionally taxing and may lead to internal conflicts that the teenager might not readily share, especially if the parent-child relationship has not been strong.

Parents also have a role to play in building resilience in their children. Activities that encourage problem solving, a positive home environment, and emotional support can all contribute to resilience. The recent NUS study emphasised that higher resilience scores were associated with better mental health, underlining the importance of emotional support and resilience-building activities.

Moreover, parents should be aware that their children may not always be forthcoming about their struggles, particularly if the parent-child relationship has been strained. This makes it even more essential to foster a supportive and open environment where the child feels safe to share his/her feelings without fear of judgment or repercussions.

IMPORTANCE OF EARLY INTERVENTION

Early intervention is key in managing and treating depressive symptoms in youths. The sooner the symptoms are recognised and addressed, the better the chances of preventing the escalation of the condition into more severe mental health issues. Untreated depression can lead to a host of negative outcomes, including academic decline, social withdrawal and worsening emotional well-being.

Most critically, untreated depressive illnesses significantly increase the risk of self-harm and suicide. According to various studies, adolescents with depressive disorders are more likely to engage in self-destructive behaviours, including self-harm and suicidal ideation. Early intervention can be a life-saving measure, providing the necessary medical and psychological support to manage these severe symptoms effectively.

By acting early, parents, healthcare providers and educators can work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the child’s unique needs. This collaborative approach not only helps in treating the immediate symptoms but also equips the child (and family) with coping mechanisms and resilience skills that will benefit them in the long term.

IMMEDIATE STEPS TO TAKE

If parents notice or suspect that their child is exhibiting symptoms of depression, immediate action is essential. The first step is to have an open and non-judgmental conversation with the child. It is crucial to approach this dialogue with sensitivity, ensuring that the child feels safe and supported in sharing his/her feelings.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, professional intervention becomes necessary. Consulting a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation can provide a clearer picture of the child’s mental health status. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment options may include psychological therapy, medication or a combination of both.

It is also important to engage with the school as part of the intervention process. Every school in Singapore has trained counsellors who can offer additional support and resources. Open communication with schoolteachers is vital. They can provide another perspective and may have more insights into the child’s stressors and triggers, especially if academic performance is declining or if there are concerns about the child’s social interactions.

Moreover, parents can seek out support groups or educational resources to better understand how to manage and cope with their child’s condition. Knowledge is power, and the more parents understand about depression, the better equipped they will be to support their child effectively.

CARING FOR THE PARENTS

While much focus is given to the well-being of the child, it is also crucial not to overlook the emotional and mental health of the parents. Parenting a child with depression can be an emotionally taxing experience, often leading to feelings of helplessness and guilt. Remember: you are not alone, and it is okay to seek help for yourself. Support groups, counselling, and even talking openly with friends and family can offer much-needed emotional relief. Taking care of yourself is not an act of selfishness; it is a necessity. When you are emotionally healthy, you are better equipped to provide the support your child needs.

CONCLUSION

The rising rates of mental health disorders among Singapore’s youth is a pressing concern that calls for immediate action from parents, educators and healthcare providers. Parents play a crucial role in early detection and intervention, but it is important to remember that help is always available, especially when the emotional toll becomes overwhelming. Schools offer additional support through trained counsellors, and healthcare providers can provide professional treatment options. Early intervention is key, as untreated depression can lead to severe consequences, including self-harm and suicide. Together, we can create a supportive environment to address this growing issue effectively.

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