Co-author: Zanise Lim Grief is a universal human experience, and children, despite their resilience, are not exempt from its impact. The experience of grief can happen at any time in an individual’s life. Although the process of grieving may look different between individuals and age groups, it is important for one to be supported during these difficult times. In this article, we will explore how children experience grief, how it may manifest to an observer, and offer guidance on supporting children through the grieving process. Some common situations that can cause a child to experience grief ..read more

Co-author: Saanika Zanwar Following our previous article on child abuse which covered the types of child abuse, some impact of child abuse, the risk factors, and possible prevention and intervention, this article will delve deeper into various impact of child abuse and how it can potentially affect the individual in the long run.   Before diving into the long-term impacts of child abuse to adulthood, it is essential to understand the various factors that can affect the impact of child abuse in adulthood. These include: Age and developmental stage of child abuse Child’s individual ..read more

Co-author: Ricole Tay Child abuse is a prevalent issue that affects many children all around the world. Despite the devastating impact that child abuse can have on the victim, many of these cases go unreported for multiple reasons, such as fear of shame or losing their sole breadwinner. Abuse cases may also go unreported due to the lack of awareness of signs of child abuse and/or the abuser intentional isolation of the victims. Therefore, victims may go on with their lives and through adulthood while carrying the trauma. Symptoms of trauma can manifest in a variety of ways. Without realising i ..read more

Given the state of the world, one may feel that violence is just part and parcel of our lives today. As we get updated on the acts of violence from around the world and within our homes, it is clear that the complexities of aggression and violence continue to remain an important topic to discuss. In this article, we explore the various root causes of violence and aggression and how preventive measures and timely interventions can negate the risk of violent acts.  Before getting to it, it is essential to differentiate between aggression and violence. Aggression refers to a broad range of b ..read more

As mental health becomes more recognised as an essential part of healthcare, it is important to understand that mental health conditions can be treated and not just about managing symptoms. For some to begin their journey to improve their mental health, they may question the validity and reliability of mental health treatment as with any type of healthcare treatment. Hence, in this article, we look at some of the advancements in research and evidence-based practices that have guided the treatment of mental health conditions. This article draws from renowned resources like the National Institut ..read more

As we approach the final examinations, one may notice that they are more stressed and anxious. Examination stress is common and perfectly normal. However, it is essential to effectively manage this stress and anxiety for one to perform. In some instances where one gets too overwhelmed, they may start to dread school, find themselves avoiding school or studying, find it hard to focus, or may find it more difficult to regulate their emotions. For some, they might become more irritable or find themselves crying more often than usual. This experience can be confusing and frustrating for students a ..read more

Co-author: Saanika Zanwar Getting a schizophrenia diagnosis can be difficult. Commonly, it leads to struggles when it comes to thinking clearly and emotion regulation. While there is no cure for schizophrenia at the moment, it is possible to learn how to manage this through appropriate treatment, self-management, and having the right support system. As it is a life-long condition, it is essential for one to adhere to treatment plans to be able to live a productive and fulfilling life.  How can it be managed? Being an episodic disorder, the partial and full remission stages offer a good op ..read more

Author: Shawn Ee As we embark on our journey to recovery, the first step is to find the right therapist who can support us through it. Given the many options and information out there, the first step can be confusing and overwhelming. Knowing where to start, what to do, or even what to look out for can be difficult. In this article, we will bring you some quick but essential tips to finding the right therapist for you. Ensuring a good fit with your therapist is essential for the effectiveness of therapy. Here are some steps to help you establish and maintain a positive therapeutic relationship ..read more

As human beings, the idea of having control and making our own choices has always been important to one’s individuality and autonomy. The ability to make choices based on our free will is an important way to express oneself and for one to achieve a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Being able to decide the things that are important to one helps to facilitate a sense of fairness and empowerment. In many ways,the ability to choose is seen as a basic human right and respect. Through the years, various fields like psychology, sociology, and economics have understood the importance of choice ..read more

Co-author: Zanise Lim Xuan Divorce is highly stressful and emotionally draining for everyone in the family. It can be very confusing and scary for children to witness the breakup of their family. Commonly, feelings of helplessness, anger, shock, grief, guilt or self-blame could arise within the child. In this article, we delve into the effects of divorce on children at different age groups, what parents can do to support the child after divorce, and understanding when it is appropriate to seek professional help for their child. Effect of divorce on children  0 to 2 years old (Infants and ..read more