It was the call that all parents dread – news that his 17-year-old son took his life. Five years on, “Sean” still grapples with the reasons why. The reality is that one in three young people in Singapore experience significant mental health challenges. What’s driving these numbers? Crispina Robert goes in search of answers and speaks to people living through their own darkness and professionals on the frontlines.  

WHERE TO SEEK HELP  

If you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, please consider reaching out to one of the helplines below.   

Youthline: +65 6436 6612 (call), 8533 9460 (text) and over email at [email protected]. Youthline provides free mental health support to youth via phone, email or a live chat service. It runs from 9am to midnight daily. Calls outside of operating hours are redirected to Samaritans of Singapore or the Singapore Civil Defence Force for emergency medical services.  

Samaritans of Singapore: 1767 (call), 9151 1767 (WhatsApp text) and over email at [email protected]. Samaritans of Singapore provides round-the-clock confidential emotional support for individuals in crisis, thinking about or affected by suicide. The call and text-based services are operational 24 hours a day, every day of the week.  

National Mindline: 1771 (call), 6669 1771 (WhatsApp) and through online webchat on the http://mindline.sg/fsmh website. This is a round-the-clock confidential national-level helpline. Beyond immediate counselling, those who require more support can be directed to the appropriate care and resources.  

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