Leading figures in Singapore share how they navigate their mental health
When the going gets tough, these nine personalities get going
Text: Hui Yi Phua
In the past year and a half, we have witnessed a general decline in society’s mental well-being largely due to the pandemic. The constant adjustments that we’ve had to make in our way of life and the increase in social isolation are just some of the factors that have impacted our individual and collective mental health. But for every dark cloud there is a silver lining — there is now a noticeable rise of mental health awareness in our society, with more people seeking professional help for mental health issues and an upward trend in usage of mental health resources like mental health apps.
We started The Soothe as a space to educate and partake in holistic wellness, and it was not a coincidence that we launched in October 2020 with a slew of mental health content. For World Mental Health Day this year, we spotlight Singapore-based figures in the arts, media, hospitality, wellness, and more; as they share their personal take on navigating mental health during the pandemic.
We hope this demonstrates that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing mental health, and that we’re all on our individual journeys — together.
Sharanjit Leyl, International News Journalist and Presenter
How I’ve managed my mental health: Being an international journalist exposes me to all kinds of mentally stressful situations, for example, reporting live from tragic scenes. All these take a toll on my mental health but I’ve found that what helped me manage is taking the time out to do what I enjoy. For me, I like to immerse myself in nature and have a good cup of coffee. Find activities that help you de-stress and feel better, whether it’s talking to your friends or reading up on The Soothe – anything that works for you!
Another piece of advice is to take it easy on yourself. I understand that living in Singapore can sometimes feel like a rat race and that puts a lot of pressure for us to be the best or perfect but it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s okay to make mistakes, don’t beat yourself up for it.
Gibran Baydoun, Founder of BYGB Hospitality and Owner of Lucali BYGB
How I’ve managed my mental health: I take moments for myself every day to allow myself to be lazy and de-stress, so it could be spending a few minutes to watch my favourite show or playing mindless mobile games. I also aim to go for a quick run at the end of each day so that I can feel a sense of accomplishment. And if needed, I reach out to my therapist who can help me work through issues that I face.
Charlotte Teo, Global Marketing Director at TiNDLE
How I’ve managed my mental health: When we speak about ‘mental health’, I really think of it as ‘total health’ — physically, mentally, even socially. During this time, what has helped was going for walks in the morning and ensuring that I have a proper lunch break with my family. I also try to catch up with friends as much as possible. And here’s something that has definitely helped: staycations!
Mili Kale, Co-Founder of Moom Health
How I’ve managed my mental health: The last eighteen months were challenging for everyone, but I’ve found a silver lining – which is moving back to Singapore — after a long ten years — and being able to spend more time with my family. Having my support system in proximity has felt amazing and I’ve never felt closer to my family. I also founded a company with my sister during the pandemic and that definitely kept me busy and distracted from all the negative events happening around me.
Charissa Guan, Co-Founder of The Soothe & Founder of Love & Thanks
How I’ve managed my mental health: I clock in a session at the gym (shoutout to Ritual East Coast) even on days where I don’t feel like it. I also go for monthly check-ins with my therapist and catch up with my friends every week…maybe with a glass of champagne or two.
Gayatri Singh, Culinary Director at Terra Madre Singapore
How I’ve managed my mental health: I keep myself busy at work because my job is my passion and I love what I do. Keeping in touch with my friends and family and making sure that I’m healthy also helped. I also try to remind myself that change is the only constant and better days are coming.
Gaurav Kripalan, Artistic Director at Singapore Repertory Theatre
How I’ve managed my mental health: For me, the coping mechanism during this extraordinary time is to take 10 minute walks outside every day. This helps me clear my head and recharges me. Before, there were times when I wouldn’t even step out of my house for consecutive days due to work and that made me feel extremely exhausted. So now I incorporate these short walks in my daily routine and I’m amazed by how this simple act has made a world of a difference for me.
Riyana Rupani, Holistic Nutritionist, Recipe Developer, Whole30 Coach
How I’ve managed my mental health: I find that going outside for a change in environment or to get some fresh air is therapeutic. I think connecting with loved ones is also important as they can lift your spirits and give you a more positive perspective on things. Also, do something for yourself that makes you happy and make you feel good about yourself.
Lynda Williams, Co-Founder of The Soothe, Founder of VIM & VIGOUR & Holistic Life Coach
How I’ve managed my mental health: Exercising and speaking to friends or mental health professionals have helped me in the last eighteen months. I’m also currently seeing a mindfulness teacher, who helps me get around mindfulness and breath work, which is known to help with anxiety. A good piece of advice would be to not beat yourself up when you’re feeling down – it’s okay not to feel okay.
