What is YOUR definition of ?

Mental health defined: “.. a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” - World Health Organization (2014)

Common Mental Health Issues in Singapore

Chong, SA et al. (2012)

Losing: Happiness Sense of self-worth Hope Interest in activities Sleep Appetite and/or weight Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Can You Handle These?

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Generalised Anxiety Disorder Common in adolescents Chronic or recurrent Often accompanied by physical symptoms

Generalised Anxiety Disorder – Physical Symptoms

Eating Disorders Extreme unhealthy eating pattern 30% needed hospitalization 30% picked up by schools *Prevalence of Eating Disorder (Aged 13 – 19) *Source: Singapore General Hospital 4 types: Anorexia NervosaBulimia Nervosa Binge-eating Disorder Orthorexia Nervosa

Eating Disorders Common causes: Depression, body image, post traumatic experiences, emotional upheaval, OCD Common symptoms:

Anorexia Nervosa Distorted body image Partial or total abstinence from food Sometimes purging through self- induced vomiting and laxative abuse

Bulimia Nervosa Cycles of binging and purging

Binge Eating Disorder Uncontrolled, impulsive and continuous eating to the point of being uncomfortably full No purging Usually triggered by an emotional event

Orthorexia Nervosa Obsessed with ‘healthy/clean’ eating Extreme exercise routines Typically seek to attain pure, clean and healthy bodies

Protective and Risk Factors

Protective and Risk Factors for Mental Health Protective factors: reduce the likelihood that a disorder will develop Reduce exposure to risk (parenting behavior  monitor behavior or whereabouts) Reducing effect of risk factors (parenting behavior  caring and supportive, access to social support) Risk factors: increase the likelihood and burden of disorder Genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, sociocultural, economic, environmental demographic

Brainstorming Time! In groups, discuss and write down at least three protective/risk factors for each of the following category: Protective Factors Individual factors Family/Social factors School context Life events and situation Community and cultural factors e.g. Easy temperament Family harmonySchool norms against violence Economic security Access to support services Risk Factors Individual factors Family/Social factors School context Life events and situation Community and cultural factors e.g. Poor healthLow parental involvement BullyingSchool transitions Lack of support services

Brainstorming Time! In groups, discuss and write down at least three protective/risk factors for each of the following category: Individual factors Family/Social factors School context Life events and situation Community and cultural factors Protective Factors                     Risk Factors                      

Protective Factors

Risk Factors

Is He/She Okay? The Warning Signs of Distress

Ways to Feel Good! Strong immunity energy level Adequate nutrients – mood Weight management Endorphin and serotonin – feel good chemicals for mood Confidence Sleep Less likely to develop mental disorders Maintain a regular sleep-and-wake schedule Keep room free of distractions Helps to: Relax when stressed Remain calm when angry Let us practice!

1. Write your name on the top left hand corner 2. Exchange your paper with 3 friends – Write down 2 strengths that best describes / like best about the person (e.g. You have a warm personality / are always so helpful) on their paper 3. Have a look at what others wrote, to identify: Your strengths/traits that you are aware of? The ones that you did not know – are you surprised? Activity Time! No idea how awesome you are? Let’s see! Remember this: You have a network of family and friends who loves you!

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