Singapore's education system is renowned for its rigour and high standards, but with these demands comes a growing need for personalized guidance and student support. It is a truly wonderful thing that many schools offer career support and wellbeing workshops to their students, however, they tend to be broad group presentations and once-off activities that are not catered to each individual person.​ As a dedicated teacher myself, I know what it's like to want to provide more support, have more one-on-one conversations and check-ins with individual students and parents, however, this is almost impossible as most classrooms have between 25 and 40 students, with many teachers teaching multiple classes and given additional school responsibilities; not to mention planning and reporting.  ​On top of the sheer number of students, schools also prioritize academic achievements and rigour, they also have a packed calendar with sporting events, excursions, camps, and performances; not to mention exams. The pressure to compete and excel academically can lead to disengagement among teenagers, impacting their overall health and well-being; which ironically, tend to have a negative impact on their overall achievements.
 

According to a study by the National University of Singapore, in collaboration with the Education Ministry and the Institute of Mental Health, "One in three youth in Singapore has reported internalising mental health symptoms such as sadness, anxiety and loneliness". Another study completed by Cigna Singapore found that "86 per cent of adults in Singapore are stressed but the Gen Zs (aged 18 - 24) are the most stressed - at 95 per cent - and also the most emotionally impacted by stress". The survey also found that "Gen Zs are the most likely to experience the symptoms of procrastination and experiencing self-doubt". ​Of course, we all deal with stress from time to time, but young people face different stressors compared to adults, they often feel misunderstood, alone, helpless and overwhelmed, frozen by the fear of failure in the eyes of parents, peers and perhaps most damaging of all - themselves. ​

There's a growing understanding of the connection between well-being and success. Positive mental health and a strong sense of self are essential for young people to navigate the challenges of academics, relationships, and future career choices. It will help them to prepare for an ever-changing world, as a global citizen. While therapy and school counselling are invaluable resources, life coaching differs in its future-oriented, goal-driven approach. It concentrates on helping students set and achieve personal and academic goals. This proactive approach empowers students to take charge of their lives and make choices that align with their values and aspirations. Some young people require both therapy and coaching, therapy to work through the past and present, and coaching to work through the present and future.  

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As a holistic coach, I am also a strong mental health advocate, however, my job is to work through the immediate source of the stress by looking at practical, solutions-based actions to help an individual get back on track by holding them accountable and helping them to collect evidence of success so they can better prepare for future stressful situations, becoming more resilient and ultimately feeling more empowered. ​If you are interested in learning more about my services and want to take the first step to discovering youth coaching, please feel free to contact me via email at Empowered.Youths.SG@gmail.com​ or by filling out the Contact Form below. 

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SINGAPORE HELPLINES

Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221-4444

Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019

Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800-353-5800

Institute of Mental Health's Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222

Silver Ribbon: 6386-1928