The importance of mental health has been gaining recognition in Singapore over the recent years. There is increased focus on children now, who may face unique challenges that can affect their mental well-being. From academic pressures to social dynamics, the mental health landscape for young people is complex and multifaceted. It is crucial that we, as a community, provide the support and resources they need to navigate these challenges successfully.

One such resource is Tinkle Friend, a children’s hotline for those in distress, operated by Singapore Children’s Society. Often, the children who call in are those who mask their emotions to avoid burdening others around them. 

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In July, Sarah* attended a mental health check-in session with Tinkle Friend and shared that she was feeling overwhelmed and downhearted. Upon further probing by our Tinkle Friend staff, it became clear that her feelings were affecting her ability to function daily.

She reported experiencing sleep disruption at least twice a week, frequent mental fatigue and a loss of interest in activities she had previously enjoyed.

We were fortunate to be able to follow up with the child on a few occasions over our Tinkle Friend chat, as sometimes, children take time to open up about the various struggles in their life. Prior to Sarah sharing about her mental health challenges, she revealed that she had suicidal tendencies. Tinkle Friend’s volunteers and staff are all trained to attend, support and de-escalate suicidal risks chats. However, it doesn’t just stop there. The team from Tinkle Friend also understands that working with the child alone is sometimes not enough.

Tinkle Friend worked with Sarah’s school’s counsellor upon having her approval. The counsellor shared that Sarah was not under her care or purview as she had no behavioural or disciplinary issues in school. Sarah has always seemed cheerful. The counsellor then approached Sarah, where she openly shared her challenges and struggles that she was going though.

The school was also very thankful to Tinkle Friend for helping them to realise that the seemingly quiet or cheerful ones do need support too.

While Tinkle Friend’s purpose is to support children who are in distress, we also believe in widening and deepening the support system by working with educators, school counsellors and families to ensure that our children are receiving the support they need. 

If you are between 7 to 12 years old and are in distress or just need someone to talk to, feel free to chat with us on Tinklefriend.sg from Monday to Thursday from 2.30pm to 7.00pm and Friday from 2.30pm to 5.00pm. Alternatively, you can call us on our hotline at 1800-274-4788 from Monday to Friday from 2.30pm to 5.00pm.

*Name has been changed to protect the identity of the child.

Click here to read the story in Chinese.
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