Accepting Change Through Arts-Based Therapy
We’ve all heard the phrase, “change is the only constant.” Yet, despite this truth, embracing change can feel like an uphill battle. How often have you faced a significant transition and felt overwhelmed? If you’re nodding in agreement, know that you’re not alone. Understanding the psychological challenges of adapting to change can offer valuable insights […]
Bipolar Disorder 101: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Bipolar disorders are a group of disorders associated with emotions, thoughts and energy levels. These disorders are characterized by oscillating episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. They are also expressed as recurrent changes in energy levels and behaviours. Cognitive symptoms such as changes in reaction time, executive functioning and visual or verbal memory are […]
Empowering Every Child: A Parent’s Guide to Advocacy
The journey of raising children comes with countless moments where they need our support and guidance. Whether our children are typically developing or have learning differences, they all need advocates who understand and champion their needs. As parents and caregivers, we play a crucial role in helping our children develop the confidence and skills they’ll […]
World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day (WICAMHD)
The World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day was first initiated to highlight the importance of mental health, starting from the early years and going right up to adolescence. It advocates the promotion of mental well-being and prevention of mental health conditions in infants, children and adolescents. Recognizing these needs, 4 organizations – the […]
Cherishing the Memories: Finding Joy After Pet Loss
The loss of a beloved pet is often a deeply personal experience. Pets are not just animals; they are family members who offer unconditional love, companionship, and joy. In the wake of such a loss, it is common to feel confusion and uncertainty. The routine of daily life can feel disjointed as we grapple with […]
Five Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Irritable Bowel Syndrome Risk: Insights from Hong Kong Research
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that impacts the functioning of the bowel, resulting in either an increase or decrease in the frequency of bowel movements and changes in stool consistency. Generally, there is pain in the abdomen that causes discomfort during bowel movement. Those diagnosed with IBS tend to have a curtailed […]
How Values Drive Behaviour: Understanding True Motivation to Change Behaviour
“My New Year’s resolution will be to exercise at least three times a week”, “this is my year where I am going to finally stop smoking”, “no more late night scrolling this year!”. Sound familiar? Next thing you know, the next year is on the way and you haven’t met that goal. Then you set […]
Understanding the Empathy Gap: Parents and Children’s Mental Health
I started playing the piano when I was 4 years old. I used to miss out on playdates to practice for 3-4 hours every day. By the time I was 9, I had completed the highest grading ABRSM exam. When my eldest son turned 4, we started him on the piano. He has an extraordinary […]
What Causes Panic Attacks? Symptoms, Triggers & Treatments
The APA Dictionary of Psychology defines panic as “a sudden, uncontrollable fear reaction that may involve terror, confusion, and irrational behavior, precipitated by a perceived threat.” In simpler terms, panic is an intense wave of fear that strikes unexpectedly, leaving you feeling confused, overwhelmed, and out of control even when no real danger exists. What […]
Rebuilding Resilience from the Inside Out: A Nutritional Perspective on Chronic Stress, Adrenal Dysfunction, and Mental Health
Stress has become a defining feature of modern living—particularly in Asia. In 2023, 88% of Singaporeans reported feeling stressed, up from 84% the year before (Cigna, 2023). In Hong Kong, over 60% of adults report daily stress, often driven by financial or political instability (HKU Public Opinion Programme, 2024). Alongside this, antidepressant use (in HK) […]