Channel News Asia reports that untold numbers of Singaporeans are hiding their depression rather than seeking treatment. They cover their symptoms and try to survive without counselling because they are fearful of how society will treat them if they come forward with their struggles. For the sake of mental health in Singapore, the region needs more education and tolerance for depression and other psychological challenges.
The Depression Diagnosis
When Singapore men, women, or teens first discover their official diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD), they may feel ashamed or weak. For some, the diagnosis brings up a deep-seated fear of mental illness. They are forced to face the reality that their condition requires medication, therapy, and possibly hospitalisation, in severe cases. The harsh realities of life with depression may compound the pressure and anxiety that these individuals are already feeling.
Social Suffering
Unfortunately, even in civilised, advanced nations, a social stigma is still associated with mental illness. People with mental health challenges are mocked, avoided, frowned upon, or viewed as cautionary tales. Even though depression is a more common mental health condition, it remains stigmatised among Singaporeans. The very real fear of mockery and social rejection forces many depression sufferers to hide their condition from friends, family, and coworkers.
Career Problems
Madam Junainah Eusope felt the pressure of Singapore society when she faced her depression diagnosis. She feared being the butt of jokes among her relatives, so she told no one but her husband about the issue. Her struggles led to loss of a job, hospital stays, and a time of severe poverty for her family. Even after she attained some emotional stability, she knew that employers would rule her out as a candidate if they knew of her depression diagnosis. “Suppose the employer gets to know that we have this illness?” says Junainah. “Nobody wants to employ us.”
Secret Struggles
According to a 2010 study by the Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 1 in 17 individuals in Singapore have major depressive disorder, either chronically or at one point during their lives. However, it’s impossible to know the actual number of individuals struggling with depression in silence. Frequently, sufferers put off seeking help from a professional. They hope that it’s a phase of life, that it will pass, or that they can work through it themselves. However, in many cases, depression has roots in the chemistry of the brain. It’s a physical condition that requires professional help, therapy, and medication to conquer. With greater awareness and more education about depression, its effects, and its treatment options, depression sufferers in Singapore may feel safe enough to reveal their condition and receive much-needed support from Singapore psychiatrists, as well as family and friends.
Effective Solutions
Do you struggle with feelings of controllable sadness, hopelessness, despair, or anxiety? Do you regularly feel helpless, unmotivated, exhausted, and sorrowful? It’s not your fault, and you aren’t weak. You may be suffering from major depressive disorder, and the best way to get it under control is to visit a top psychologist in Singapore, like the professionals at Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic. Don’t worry about what others may think of you; it’s your life, and you should not have to spend it in the shadows of depression. With the right treatment plan, the experts at Adelphi may be able to help you reclaim your happiness, your motivation, and your life.
News Feed from Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic
Source: Channel News Asia, 18 May,2016