Enhancing Mental Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention: The Role of Good Mental Wellness, Limbic System Therapy, and Counselling in Singapore
Written by Dawn Tan, Head of Counselling, Gottman Level 3 Therapist and Neurofeedback Therapist
In light of the alarming number of suicide cases from Singapore reported in 2022, it is crucial to prioritize mental well-being and explore effective strategies for suicide prevention.
In this article, we will focus on the role of good mental wellness, limbic system therapy (a trauma-informed intervention), and counselling in Singapore, with an emphasis on empowering individuals with self-help strategies. By equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge to enhance their mental well-being, we can foster resilience, promote early intervention, and ultimately prevent suicide.
Understanding the Importance of Mental Well-being
A. Mental Well-being: The Foundation of a Healthy Mind
Good mental wellness is essential for overall health and happiness. It encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, allowing individuals to cope with stress, form positive relationships, and lead fulfilling lives.
B. Recognizing Factors Affecting Mental Wellbeing in Singapore
Various factors, such as work-related stress, academic pressure, financial difficulties, and social isolation can negatively impact mental health in Singapore. Identifying and addressing these factors is crucial for enhancing mental well-being and preventing suicide.
C. Self-Help Strategies for Promoting Mental Wellbeing
Cultivating Self-Awareness: Developing an understanding of one’s emotions, triggers, and needs is key to managing mental wellbeing. Practising mindfulness, journaling, or engaging in reflective exercises can help individuals become more self-aware.
Building Resilience: Strengthening resilience enables individuals to bounce back from adversity. Engaging in activities that promote personal growth, setting realistic goals, and seeking social support are effective ways to enhance resilience.
Nurturing Positive Relationships: Social connections are vital for mental well-being. Cultivating healthy relationships, seeking support from loved ones, and participating in social activities can positively impact mental health.
Limbic System Therapy: Empowering Self-Help in Trauma Recovery
A. Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on Mental Health
Traumatic experiences can significantly affect mental health and increase the risk of suicide. We all experience trauma in our lives and how we heal from it is crucial for self-help strategies in trauma recovery.
B. Limbic System Therapy: Self-Help Techniques
Grounding Exercises: Engaging in grounding techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or using sensory stimuli, helps individuals feel present and grounded during distressing moments.
Self-Soothing Techniques: Learning self-soothing techniques, such as using comforting objects, practicing relaxation exercises, or engaging in self-care activities, helps individuals manage anxiety and distress.
Cognitive Restructuring: Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs associated with trauma can empower individuals to reframe their experiences and promote healing.
Emotion Regulation Strategies: Developing healthy coping mechanisms, such as expressing emotions through art or writing, engaging in physical activity, or seeking support from trusted individuals, assists individuals in regulating their emotions effectively.
C. Seeking Professional Support: The Role of Counselling
While self-help strategies are valuable, seeking professional support through counselling is essential for comprehensive trauma recovery. Professional counsellors can provide guidance, personalized strategies, and create a safe space for individuals to explore their trauma and emotions.
The Power of Counseling: Self-Help and Professional Guidance
A. Understanding the Benefits of Counselling
Counselling offers a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals can address their mental health concerns. It provides guidance, tools, and coping strategies tailored to the individual’s needs.
B. Self-Help Techniques Incorporated in Counselling Sessions
Counselling sessions often integrate self-help techniques, empowering individuals to take an active role in their mental health journey. These techniques can include goal setting, cognitive and behavioural strategies, and exploration of self-help resources.
C. Overcoming Barriers to Seeking Counselling
Acknowledging and addressing barriers to seeking counselling is crucial. Common barriers include stigma, lack of awareness, and cultural or language barriers. Promoting mental health literacy, reducing stigma, and improving accessibility can encourage individuals to seek counselling.
Call to Action
Enhancing mental wellbeing and preventing suicide requires a holistic approach that includes self-help strategies, limbic system therapy, and professional counselling. By empowering individuals with self-help techniques, promoting good mental wellness, and ensuring accessible counselling services, Singapore can build a resilient society that supports mental health.
It is essential for individuals to cultivate self-awareness, practice self-care, and seek professional support when needed. By combining self-help strategies with professional guidance, individuals can enhance their mental wellbeing, recover from trauma, and reduce the risk of suicide.
Together, as a community, Singapore can create a culture that prioritizes mental health, breaks the stigma surrounding seeking help, and fosters a supportive environment for all.
How We Can Help
Here at EMCC, we offer Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) and online or in-person counselling to ensure that we are here to provide you with the professional help needed.
To ensure that our services remain accessible, subsidized counselling is also provided.
