“Recognising the importance of your mental health and well-being is a great start! In this hustle culture, our mental health often takes a backseat, and it can eventually lead to burnout. We can learn to see life as a marathon and not a sprint, and managing our mental well-being is one of the ways to train endurance and resilience.
Set aside regular self-care periods and explore different ways to see what works best in managing your mental health – be it identifying stressors and practising mindfulness, connecting with family and friends, or simply spending time on a hobby that you enjoy.”
- Oon Yee Jeng, Joy, Health Promotion Board Overseas Undergraduate Scholar
“I would recommend students seek out a supportive circle of friends with whom they share a deep resonance. I believe that cultivating a holistic network of friends is important in fostering positive mental health and overall well-being. Surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who understand and empathise with your experiences can provide a vital source of encouragement and emotional support. Together, you can navigate the ups and downs of academic life, providing a listening ear during challenging times.”
- Stefanie Low Jing Ting, Singapore-Industry Scholar
“Grades and examinations can feel like the be-all and end-all when this is all we’ve done for most of our lives. It can feel very much like your life hinges on one test, one exam, or one letter grade. It does not. Cherish the process and focus on the skills and experiences you get to keep – let the outcomes settle themselves after you have given your best effort.”
- Kevin Goh, Economic Development Board Scholar
“Make a conscious effort to indulge in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could be as simple as listening to your favourite song, meditating, or spending time with your loved ones. Prioritising your mental health and well-being does not mean you have to sacrifice your academic goals, in fact, it would help you focus better and build a stronger immune system, so you do not fall sick during critical periods. Often, you are your own worst critic - so remember to set realistic expectations, manage your timelines, and give yourself permission to take breaks.”
- Megan Ng Min Feng, Singapore Tourism Board Full-Term Local Scholar
“Focus on your own journey and avoid comparing yourselves to others. Do not feel pressured to follow the trend or what’s popular. Instead, pursue your interests and passions. It is also important to take breaks and make time for activities outside of your academics. This helps to maintain a healthy balance between school and personal life which would hopefully continue after starting your professional career.”
- Muhammad Hadi Bin Mohammad, Singapore-Industry Mid-Term Scholar
“Don’t downplay your emotions – it is perfectly okay to feel whatever you’re feeling! This is not a solution to any issues you may be facing, but I think it is important to acknowledge how we feel about ourselves or about a particular situation instead of avoiding them.”
- Chia Li Fang, MCI Information Service (Translation) Scholar
“I think it is important to reach out for help as a student to people around you when you need it – your family, friends, social circle and even your professors in school. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness and finding it early can prevent problems from escalating into bigger problems that may affect your mental health.”
- Fan Ting Wei, Smart Nation Scholar
“Find an activity that you enjoy doing and try to do it regularly. Even during exam season or busy periods, it is important to find time to relax. I find that’s when I most often struggle with mental health. It also helps to have a regular study schedule, so you stay on top of your schoolwork, instead of cramming everything in the two weeks before exams.”
- Natasha Tan Yan Tze, Smart Nation Scholar