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Why children's mental health care needs a new direction.
In this article, family therapist Dr. Jenny Brown argues that contemporary youth mental health care paradoxically sidelines parents by focusing strictly on a "sickness lens" that treats the child in isolation. This individual-focused treatment encourages parents to anxious-focus on fixing their struggling child, which often leads to helplessness and diminished hope when external expert interventions fail. Grounded in Bowen family systems theory, Dr. Brown emphasizes that yout
Boys and girls show different depressive symptoms tied to early brain development: A*STAR-led study
An A*STAR-led study in Singapore has revealed that boys and girls display distinct depressive symptoms in adolescence that are directly linked to differences in early childhood brain development. By analyzing brain scans of children between ages 4½ and 7½, researchers found that girls showed a faster rate of brain development during these early years and were 2½ times more likely to report depressive symptoms by age 13. Furthermore, the underlying neurological pathways differ
More than 60% people use AI for mental health support — but many are unhappy with it, survey finds
According to the 2026 AXA and IPSOS Mind Health Report, over 60% of people now use AI chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health advice due to barriers like cost and time constraints, even though 45% report being dissatisfied with the help they receive. The global survey of 19,000 adults highlights a rising mental health crisis—particularly among young adults aged 18 to 24, where 85% are affected by stress, anxiety, or depression. While experts note that heavy screen use (averag
SGMHM survey: Most Singaporeans would see a GP for mental health. Nearly half don't trust them to help
The article from The Online Citizen discusses the findings of a 2026 public consultation survey conducted by the community-led group SG Mental Health Matters (SGMHM). The survey evaluated the public's experience with Singapore’s National Mental Health and Well-Being Strategy and revealed a notable disconnect between public willingness to seek help and their trust in primary healthcare providers. https://theonlinecitizen.com/2026/05/13/sgmhm-survey-most-singaporeans-would-see
As AI use grows, experts warn of risks to mental health and relationships
Hosts Steven Chia and Tiffany Ang interviewed two experts: Associate Professor Swapna Verma from the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and Associate Professor Jennifer Ang from the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/deep-dive-podcast-ai-companionship-dependence-experts-6118376 Key Takeaways 1. The Appeal and Hidden Risks of AI for Mental Health The Positives: AI chatbots (like ChatGPT) can act as a helpful initial soundi
Counselling in Singapore - free & affordable help for mental healthcare
A comprehensive guide to accessible mental wellness resources in Singapore, detailing both cost-free services and affordable, sliding-scale private options. https://www.asiaone.com/lifestyle/counselling-singapore-free-affordable-help-mental-healthcare Here is a summary of the key resources highlighted in the article: 1. Free In-Person Counselling & Specialized Helplines Silver Ribbon Singapore: Offers completely free basic, face-to-face counselling during weekdays (appointmen
Why Chatbots Can't Replace Your Therapist
Key points Chatbots might provide temporary comfort, but they are not a substitute for human connection. A therapist using evidence-based practices is trained to diagnose and treat you; most bots are not. Just because your mind thinks it's harmless doesn't mean it's harmless. https://www.psychologytoday.com/sg/blog/fearless-you/202604/why-chatbots-cant-replace-your-therapist
New Poll Reveals Growing Concern About Mental Health
Mental health is now the biggest concern for many people. Half of U.S. respondents cited mental health as the top health concern, a stark increase from a few years ago. People are worried about their mental health just as they might be about acquiring a debilitating illness. There are a number of reasons why concern for our mental health has increased so dramatically. We Haven’t Healed from the Pandemic We Are Overwhelmed With Everyday Stressors We Are Feeling Less Autonomous
Why Singapore’s Rank As A Least Depressed Country Is Actually Surprising
A study has revealed Singapore boasts one of the lowest rates of depression globally. Here we unpack the hidden realities behind the numbers despite what the data says. https://secretsingapore.co/singapore-least-depressed-country-ranking/
870 psychologists enrol in professional body as Singapore plans mandatory registration
In Singapore, 870 psychologists have enrolled in a professional body in anticipation of mandatory registration for clinical, educational, counselling, forensic psychology and clinical neuropsychology. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/870-psychologists-enrolled-in-professional-body-as-spore-plans-for-mandatory-registration
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