What are the Stigmas Around Mental Health?
Here are the common stigmas around mental health that people in Singapore need to know to take steps in the right direction.
Stigma: Mental Illness Indicates Personal Weakness
The Fact: Like other physical conditions, mental illness is also a medical condition. Hence, it requires the right treatment and professional and family support, not judgment or blame.
Stigma: Mental Condition Can Bring Disgrace to the Family
The Fact: Mental health challenges are common in Singapore and do not bring shame. OpenAI reveals that over a million users discuss serious mental health issues with ChatGPT weekly. Hence, families should play a key role in support and recovery without judgment or stigma.
Stigma: Individuals Battling with Mental Sickness are Violent/Dangerous
The Fact: Most individuals with mental conditions are not violent; rather, they prefer isolation. Do not stereotype them as dangerous to avoid unnecessary discrimination.
Stigma: Men Must Not Express Emotional/Mental Weakness
The Fact: Men are also the victims of sadness and emotional weakness. They should also be encouraged to express emotions and seek help, which improves mental wellness. Even celebrities like Adrian Pang and Benjamin Kheng have spoken out, encouraging change. Hence, break these harmful gender norms on mental health.
Stigma: Mental Conditions are Rare & Only Affect a Particular Community
The Fact: Mental illness is common globally, and Singapore is no different. The nationwide Singapore Mental Health Study (SMHS) carried out in 2016 found that about 1 in 7 people in Singapore experience mental health issues, affecting all backgrounds and ages. Also, severe symptoms of depression were at 14.9 % among youths in Singapore as per Asian Journal of Psychiatry study, 2025
Age Group (years) | Mental Illness Rates in Singapore |
10 to 14 | ~12.8 |
15 to 22 | 7.0 |
18 to 29 | 25.3 |
30 to 39 | 19.4 |
60 to 74 | 10.5 |
Stigma: Seeking Therapy for Mental Illness is Socially Not Appropriate
The Fact: Mental health therapy and professional help are effective. They play a crucial role in managing mental health, and seeking help is a real sign of strength.
Stigma: Family Should Handle Mental Illness Privately/Within the Family
The Fact: Yes, families are important; however, professional treatment and open support networks lead to better and faster recovery results. This develops a sense of belonging.
Stigma: Mental Conditions Cannot be Treated Effectively
The Fact: Many mental health conditions respond well to treatment under professional care. The timely counseling and community support provide fulfilling lives.
Also Read: Good mental health can help boost fertility
What are the 4 Causes of Stigma?
It’s not like people are always judgmental towards mental health issues. There are many reasons that force society to have a negative outlook towards mental illness. Our responsibility is to bring the right knowledge so that everyone can live with dignity.
Here are the main 4 reasons for the stigma around mental health:
- Lack of understanding or fear.
- Inaccurate or misleading media representations of mental illness.
- Cultural and traditional beliefs and fake masculinity contribute to stigma.
- Inadequate mental health policies, government support and resources.
Self-Care Tips to Prioritize Your Mental Well-Being
Here are some tips that you can consider to take care of your mental health.
Identify the factors that trigger the stress. And practice relaxation techniques such as:
- Deep breathing
- Meditation
- Reduce screen time
- Aromatherapy
- Connecting with loved ones
All these can help reduce physical and mental tension effectively.
With the hectic lifestyle, anxiety is becoming a part of life. Learn to cope with it:
- Engage in fun activities you like
- Use mindfulness to stay present
- Seek professional help when anxiety feels overwhelming to restore peace of mind.
Join Mental Health Support in Singapore
Join local mental health resources/support such as:
- Counseling services
- Hotlines
- Community support groups
This will help you find timely help and reduce isolation.
Time Management & Learning to Say “No”
Learn time-management skills by doing smart work:
- Prioritize urgent tasks
- Break big projects into smaller steps
- Learn to say no. This helps avoid over commitment and prevent burnout.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle not only maintains good physical health but also boosts a good mental state:
Here are some healthy lifestyle tips:
- Regular exercise
- Balanced diet
- Enough sleep
- Limiting caffeine or alcohol intake
Also Read: Mood Swings in Pregnancy? 5 Smart Ways to Stay Calm
References & Resources
Interested in reading more pregnancy and maternity tips?
You will find a collection of articles here on pregnancy diet and nutrition, exercise & fitness during and post pregnancy, emotional wellness and more. Check out a few from the list below:
What Is a Cryptic Pregnancy? Causes, Signs & Risk
- Pregnancy Pillow Guide: Benefits, Types & How to Choose
Early Pregnancy Discharge: What’s Normal and When to Worry
- How to plan and prepare for second pregnancy?
More Pregnancy & Maternity Tips
Top 5 Pregnancy Apps Every Mum to be Should Download 2025
Second trimester of pregnancy: Simple tips for would-be moms
If you’re planning ahead for your baby’s future, consider exploring cord blood banking options with Cryoviva Singapore. Learn more about how you can secure your child’s health for years to come. Have questions about your pregnancy journey or cord blood banking? Contact Us today.
