New Initiative Aims to Address Adolescent Mental Health Crisis in Singapore

SINGAPORE – A new initiative aimed at addressing the mental health crisis among adolescents was launched on June 20, 2025, focusing on training counselors and social workers to identify early warning signs, or 'red flags,' in young people aged 10 to 19. The program, spearheaded by Dr. Angelina Ang, a senior consultant in the emergency department at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), seeks to intervene before mental health issues escalate into severe crises.

This initiative emerges in response to alarming data indicating a rise in mental health issues among Singapore's youth, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. A study published in February 2023 by KKH revealed that approximately one in five adolescents admitted to the emergency department for self-harm had previously sought medical attention for unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomachaches, suggesting underlying mental distress. Dr. Ang stated, "Medically unexplained symptoms are red flags – symptoms of distress, anxiety, or maybe even abuse, and if we continue to sweep them under the carpet, they will crash on the child."

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat a mental health crisis that has seen one in three young individuals report severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress, according to a survey conducted by the National University of Singapore in 2023. Dr. Ang highlighted that many adolescents grappling with these issues often feel confused about their feelings, with over half of those who attempted self-harm indicating uncertainty about their suicidal intent.

During the launch event, Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam emphasized the importance of the Youth Connect Programme, which aims to create a comprehensive care system. She noted, "Today’s launch is more than just a new programme for mental health support; it represents our collective commitment – regardless of our area of work – to support young people that we meet, in ways that best suit them."

The program has already trained over 300 school counselors and community mental health practitioners since its inception in October 2024. It is supported by the Temasek Foundation and aims to coordinate care between schools and healthcare providers. KKH's Chief Executive Alex Sia reported that since implementing screening processes in October 2022, the hospital has assessed more than 2,500 young individuals and provided support to over 1,300.

In addition to addressing immediate mental health needs, the collaboration between KKH and James Cook University (JCU) is developing an educational program focused on improving sleep habits among youths, a topic deemed more approachable than mental health discussions. This effort reflects an understanding that tackling mental health requires gradual and multifaceted approaches.

The mental health crisis among young people in Singapore is not merely a local issue but resonates with global trends. A report published in The Lancet Public Health in May 2023 identified mental disorders as the leading cause of disability and death in those aged 10 to 14 in Singapore, ranking the nation highest in ASEAN for the impact of mental distress on its population. Such findings underscore the urgent need for interventions and support systems as mental health challenges grow increasingly prevalent.

Despite these alarming statistics, a recent survey revealed a significant disconnect between adolescents' mental health struggles and parental awareness. Approximately 90% of parents did not recognize signs of distress in their children, despite one-third of youth reporting symptoms indicative of mental health issues. This gap highlights the necessity for increased communication and education regarding mental health within families.

In conclusion, this initiative represents a proactive step towards addressing the mental health needs of Singapore's youth, emphasizing early intervention and community involvement. As mental health continues to be a pressing concern for young people, ongoing efforts will be crucial in fostering a supportive environment that can effectively mitigate risks and promote well-being among adolescents.