Myths and facts on Mental illness Singapore
25 July 2010Mental health myths
By ALYCIA LIM
educate@thestar.com.my
Exams, parents’ expectations and peer pressure are the common factors affecting the life of the average teenager today.
With an environment that expects so much out of them, it is natural that these young people face tremendous pressure to do well.
While some find it easy to cope, others may fall through the cracks as they battle yet another problem – stress.
It is an overused word, perhaps, but stress is one of the most common mental health issues faced by teenagers — yet more often than not, it is not taken seriously.
At the 12th ASEAN Federation of Psychiatry and Mental Health congress held in Kuala Lumpur recently, National University of Singapore senior consultant psychiatrist Prof Kua Ee Heok said that when it comes to mental health conditions, there is no age limit.
“Young people today face a lot of stress from school and society, and those around them such as their teachers and parents need to be observant to their behaviour, and pick up the early signs of mental illness before it is too late.”
He said it was important for teachers to be well informed on detecting the early signs in their students, which may lead to more serious conditions, such as depression, if the individual was not treated early.
“People suffering from stress, or other mental illnesses, may not realise it themselves, so it is the responsibility of the community around them to seek help.”
Unfortunately, the term “mental illness” still remains as a taboo for many.
Prof Kua said that while there was no shame in seeing a mental health professional to seek help, many still delay help until their problem had deteriorated badly, sometimes to the point of being suicidal.
Practising in Singapore, he said his patients included high-profile professionals who travelled from Malaysia for consultation and medical help.
“My patients include lawyers, even, who travel to Singapore to treat their mental health problems such as dementia.”
He added that while genetics may play a role in causing one to be more susceptible to mental illnesses, it was not set in stone.
“If your family member suffers from mental illnesses like schizophrenia or dementia, that does not mean that you would suffer from it too.
“What is more important is to seek information, and with the right knowledge, many people can lead satisfying lives whether or not they are diagnosed, as these illnesses can be treated.”
An advice to take home?
Prof Kua said, “If you have a friend or relative whom you think needs help, ask what you can do, and if it is beyond your capabilities, refer them to a professional.”
Original Source : TheStar Online
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