{"id":254,"date":"2016-11-03T05:55:51","date_gmt":"2016-11-03T05:55:51","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/scc.sg\/e\/?page_id=254"},"modified":"2026-05-09T12:24:06","modified_gmt":"2026-05-09T04:24:06","slug":"news-features","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/scc.sg\/e\/news-features\/","title":{"rendered":"News Features"},"content":{"rendered":"

News Features and Commentary<\/h3>
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Singapore Counselling Centre (SCC) is proud to have been featured across various local and regional media platforms, where our professionals have provided expert commentary on mental health, relationships, workplace wellbeing, youth issues, trauma, addiction, and emotional wellness.<\/p>\n

Through these media features, SCC remains committed to increasing public awareness, promoting meaningful conversations around mental health, and making psychological support more accessible to the community.<\/p>\n

Below are some of the articles and features we have contributed to over the years.<\/p>\n

If you are from a news or media agency and would like to request commentary, interviews, or professional insights from our team, please submit your media enquiry here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section>\n

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2026<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2025<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2024<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2023<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2022<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2021<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a>2020 and beyond<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>
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More Young Couples Seek Premarital Counselling Before Marriage (CNA, Apr 2026)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“They\u2019re very interested to identify gaps in the area of compatibility, to identify areas whereby somewhere down the line, that difference can cause serious conflict.<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores the growing number of young Singaporean couples seeking premarital counselling before tying the knot. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares how couples are becoming more intentional about discussing finances, expectations, family roles, and long-term compatibility before marriage. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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More Kids Sexually Assaulted in 2025; Family Member Cases Also Rise (The Straits Times, Apr 2026)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“When abuse happens within trusted relationships, it can severely affect a child\u2019s sense of safety and trust.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This report examines rising cases of child sexual abuse in Singapore, including incidents involving family members. Dr John Shepherd Lim discusses the long-term psychological impact on children and the importance of early intervention, emotional support, and safe reporting channels. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Losing S$150,000: Gambling Addiction and the World Cup (CNA, Apr 2026)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Major football competitions, the World Cup especially, function as catalysts. They don\u2019t manufacture gamblers overnight, but they accelerate vulnerability in people who are already in fragile territory with their betting habits.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This CNA feature explores the rise in gambling addiction risks during major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup. Dr John Shepherd Lim discusses how digital betting access, emotional vulnerability, and social normalisation contribute to problematic gambling behaviours, while emphasising early support and non-judgemental intervention. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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When Sexual Assault Victims Are Accused of Lying by Their Own Families<\/b><\/span> (The Straits Times, Jan<\/b><\/span> <\/b>2026)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Sometimes cheating is less about dishonesty and more about fear \u2014 fear of failure, disappointment, or not being good enough.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores the psychological reasons students may cheat during examinations, including academic pressure, fear of failure, and perfectionism. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares how parents can respond constructively by focusing on emotional support, values, and open communication rather than punishment alone. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Why Students Cheat During Exams (The Straits Times, Aug 2025)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Sometimes cheating is less about dishonesty and more about fear \u2014 fear of failure, disappointment, or not being good enough.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores the psychological reasons students may cheat during examinations, including academic pressure, fear of failure, and perfectionism. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares how parents can respond constructively by focusing on emotional support, values, and open communication rather than punishment alone. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Boom in Drug Production, Easy Access to Vapes and Permissive Attitudes Towards Kpods (The Straits Times, Jul 2025)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Young people are especially vulnerable when risky behaviours become normalised within peer culture.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This feature examines growing concerns around substance use, vaping, and changing social attitudes among youths. Dr John Shepherd Lim highlights how accessibility, social influence, and stress can contribute to experimentation and dependency, emphasising the need for education and early intervention. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Over 460 Youth Arrested for Sexual Crimes in 2024 (The Straits Times, May 2025)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“Many youths may not fully grasp the emotional, psychological, and legal consequences of their actions, especially in an age where exposure to sexual content online is increasingly normalised.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This Straits Times feature examines the rise in youth sexual offences in Singapore, with sexual penetration of minors being the most commonly reported offence. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares insights on the influence of digital exposure, peer pressure, and gaps in emotional education, while highlighting the importance of early conversations around consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Woman Loses Over S$78,000 to Job Scam (The Straits Times, Apr 2025)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Scammers often prey not just on greed, but on emotional vulnerability, urgency, and the victim\u2019s desire to regain control once losses begin.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores how scam victims can become psychologically trapped in manipulation cycles, even when warning signs are present. Dr John Shepherd Lim discusses the emotional impact of scams, including shame, denial, and panic, and explains how scammers exploit stress and cognitive overload to lower a person\u2019s judgement and resistance. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Singapore Youth Turning to AI Chatbots for Mental Health Support (The Independent, Oct 2024)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“AI can provide accessibility and immediate responses, but it should not replace genuine human connection and professional intervention when needed.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

As more youths explore AI chatbots for emotional support, this article examines both the opportunities and limitations of AI in mental healthcare. Dr John Shepherd Lim discusses how AI tools may complement support systems, while emphasising the continued importance of trained professionals and human empathy. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Should You Forgive Childhood Trauma? (CNA, Sep 2024)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Forgiveness should never be forced. Healing comes first.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This feature discusses the complex realities surrounding childhood trauma, abuse, and forgiveness. Dr John Shepherd Lim highlights that forgiveness is a deeply personal journey and that individuals should prioritise safety, healing, and emotional processing before feeling pressured to reconcile. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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How Music, ASMR and Noise Affect the Brain<\/b><\/span> (CNA Lifestyle, Jun 2024)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Sound has a strong ability to influence our emotional state, concentration, and even our sense of safety.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

From calming music to ASMR and environmental noise, this CNA Lifestyle feature examines how sound impacts mental wellbeing, focus, and sleep. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares insights into how intentional sound environments can help regulate stress and emotions in daily life. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Dealing with Work Burnout and Fatigue (The Straits Times, Jun 2024)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“You can talk it through with your family members and their experiences with their colleagues. From there, you can discover what works best for you when maintaining work relationships.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores the cumulative effects of stress and burnout at the end of the year. Dr John Shepherd Lim shares practical ways individuals can manage fatigue, reframe negative thinking, and maintain healthier workplace relationships and emotional balance. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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True Crime Obsession: Why We Can\u2019t Stop Watching (CNA Lifestyle, Mar 2024)<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

“For some people, consuming true crime gives them a sense of control over uncertainty and danger.<\/em>“<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This article explores the growing fascination with true crime content and its psychological effects. Dr John Shepherd Lim explains how true crime can simultaneously trigger anxiety and provide a sense of preparedness, while cautioning against overconsumption that may heighten stress and fear. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Dealing with Work Burnout and Fatigue (CNA Lifestyle, Nov 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cYou can talk it through with your family members and their experiences with their colleagues. From there, you can discover what works best for you when maintaining work relationships.\u201d<\/em> – John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

As we are nearing the end of the year, we may be experiencing the aftereffects of the cumulative stress from the past few months. In this article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, Dr John Shepherd Lim, share tips on how you can rewire your negative thinking in such situations and ways to manage burnout and fatigue in various scenarios in the workplace. Read more about it here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Young PMETs taking long breaks from work (The Straits Times, Oct 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cWith the increased awareness about mental health and burnout, young people today are more attuned to the signs of burnout and take proactive steps to address it.\u201d<\/em> – John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

There has been a trend among young PMETs to take extended breaks, lasting months or even years, in order to reduce effects of burnout or to explore other job opportunities. In this Straits Times article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares about the possible reasons for this phenomenon and the benefits and downsides to taking a break in between jobs. Read more here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Quest to Stay Forever Young: Aesthetic Treatments, Supplements and Wellness Trends (The Straits Times, Sep 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“The pursuit of youthfulness often reflects deeper emotional needs tied to self-worth, confidence, and societal expectations.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

This feature examines Singaporeans\u2019 growing interest in aesthetic treatments, supplements, and wellness routines aimed at slowing ageing. Dr John Shepherd Lim discusses the psychological motivations behind these pursuits and the importance of balancing self-care with healthy self-acceptance. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Youth Scam Victims Seeking Help in Counselling (The Straits Times, Aug 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cHaving their money and pride taken away from them against their will, victims may begin to believe they have no control over their life and future,\u201d \u2013 <\/em>John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

Many youths often find themselves able to navigate online spaces effectively, adapting well to digital developments. As such, this lends them confidence that they will be less likely to be victims of scam. However, the youth are just as susceptible to scams as any other age group. In this Straits Times article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares about the effects of scams on youth and what they can do to manage the guilt and shame that may arise.\u00a0Read more here!\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Moving Forward After Infidelity (CNA Lifestyle, Aug 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“It is important for the parents, while in the midst of repairing their relationship, to check in with their children and provide them a safe place to communicate their emotions and needs using terms that the child can understand<\/em>\u201d \u2013 John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

Extramarital affairs can take a huge hit on marriages and the family. How then, can families move forward after the infidelity of a spouse? There are many challenges and concerns that a family has to navigate amidst other distressing emotions. In this article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim highlights the common obstacles that families face and the important role that parents play in ensuring their children’s wellbeing as a result of extramarital affairs. You can read the article here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Dealing with Infidelity in Marriages (TODAY, Jul 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“As these young children may not be able to articulate what they experience with their peers, their bottled-up emotions can be carried into adulthood, forming unconstructive thoughts and beliefs when unprocessed.<\/em>” \u2013 John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

The topic of extramarital affairs has been the source of contention following recent news. Dealing with the infidelity of a spouse can undoubtedly bring intense amounts of stress, anxiety, and feelings of betrayal. Furthermore, this can be a tricky situation to navigate, given how personal and nuanced this subject matter is. It is at these moments that marriages and families dealing with infidelity require the most support. In this article by TODAY online, our chief well-being officer, John Shepherd Lim, reminds us of the repercussions of extramarital affairs, and how we can best support affected families. Read more here!<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Mental Health Among Youths in Singapore (CNA, May 2023)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“Some youths may not feel comfortable disclosing their mental health needs to their parents and hence may deter them from seeking the help that they need,<\/em>\u201d -John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

As youths face mounting pressure from transitioning between stages in life and juggling various obligations, the conversation around mental health remains important for this demographic. Despite experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions, some youths may still be deterred from seeking professional help. In this TODAY online article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares some reasons why seeking professional help doesn’t always come easy and ways to encourage our youth. Find out more\u00a0here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Lending Support For Job Scam Victims (Business Times, Mar 2023)<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

“Most importantly, we have to be present and encouraging towards job-scam victims, such that they can gradually learn to forgive themselves for their mistake.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

Job scams have become more rampant in the past few years. Falling victim to a job scam can cause an immense amount of stress, shame, and guilt for an individual. In these moments, victims require support and empathy more than ever. In this article from The Business Times, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, provides some insight on how to be present and provide better support for job scam victims. Read more about it here!<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Setting Achievable New Year’s Resolutions (CNA Lifestyle, Jan 2023)<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n

“The important thing about any kind of goal setting is making your goals specific and bite-sized.”<\/em>\u00a0– John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

Setting new year resolutions for ourselves can be an empowering and promising task. Achieving those goals that we set for ourselves, on the other hand, can be more challenging, especially with other commitments occupying our time and energy. In this Channel News Asia article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, provides some advice on how to form achievable goals for ourselves and to be more effective in attaining them. Read more about it here!<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Mental Wellbeing of Youths (TODAY, Nov 2022)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“However, there are some people who may not want to confide in friends or family.\u00a0This is because they fear being judged or burdening their closed ones.”<\/em> \u2014<\/span> \u00a0<\/em>John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

There has been a rise of youths seeking mental health support, but it can still be tough to reach out for help despite struggling with various stressors coming into adulthood. In this TODAY article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, Dr John Shepherd Lim, advises on alternative sources of support, such as seeking professional help from counselling. Read more about it here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Sex Education in Singapore (CNA Lifestyle, Oct 2022)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“Having heart-to heart conversations with parents on sensitive topics is often better than leaving children to learn from online sources.”<\/em> \u2014<\/span> \u00a0<\/em>John Shepherd Lim<\/p>\n

It can be difficult to begin broaching the topic of sex with children despite the perceived importance of sex education. In this Channel News Asia article, our Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, discusses what can be done to take an age-appropriate approach towards having a meaningful “birds and bees” talk with children. Read about it here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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The Good, Bad and Ugly of TikTok (TODAY, Aug 2022)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“If we seem to be performing other tasks at our normal capacity, our TikTok usage should not be a concern. Otherwise, users could consider setting a daily limit on TikTok screen time through the app\u2019s settings.” <\/em>\u2014<\/span> John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

Looking at the meteoric rise of TikTok in Singapore, users and experts alike are left wondering what has driven its popularity. More importantly, what are the potential up- and downsides? In The Big Read by Today, Dr John Lim, SCC Chief Wellbeing Officer, chimes in on some psychological challenges that individuals may face with excessive TikTok usage. Read here<\/a> for the full coverage!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Burnout within the Hustle Culture (TODAY, Aug 2022)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“[The normalisation of heavy workloads] can make it hard for people to vocalise their struggles with burnout, as they might compare with the drive and pace of life that others seem to be coping well with, and fear being seen as weak.” \u2014<\/span> John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

Hustle culture refers to the mindset that one must prioritise work and constantly keep busy to advance their professional career. Yet, such work ethics can make one more susceptible to severe emotional and physical fatigue, otherwise known as ‘burnout’. To address this, SCC Chief Wellbeing Officer John Shepherd Lim provides some insight for Today into why burnout is exceedingly common within the hustle culture. Read all about it here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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New Years Resolution (CNA, Jan 2022)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“At the end of the day, goals should work for us. We should not feel enslaved to the goals we\u2019ve set at the start of the year. Should we find ourselves feeling discouraged and defeated, perhaps it is time to relook our goals and set ones that are achievable.” \u2014<\/span> John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

Setting new year’s resolutions can help us to improve and grow. However, consistently chasing these goals over the course of an entire year can be challenging, and falling short of them may be detrimental to our mental wellbeing. In this article by Today, SCC Chief Wellbeing Officer John Shepherd Lim shares some tips on how to set realistic new year’s resolutions and successfully achieve them. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>

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Generation COVID (The Straits Times, Dec 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“Though growing up in isolation may allow them to be more self-reliant, it is also important for these youth to maintain a healthy level of sociability” \u2014<\/span> John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

Growing up during the pandemic has been rough for Singaporean youth, as their social, academic and professional lives have been derailed by the coronavirus. In this article by The Straits Times, SCC Chief Wellbeing Officer John Shepherd Lim outlines the pros and cons of being a member of “Generation Covid”.\u00a0Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Holiday Blues (CNA Lifestyle, Dec 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cReflection often brings about mixed feelings: The excitement and anticipation of starting a new year, and grappling with unaccomplished matters in the past year.\u201d \u2014<\/span> John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

The weeks leading up to the end of the year end can be one of the most stressful times, with many of us experiencing a case of the “festive blues”. In this article by CNA, SCC Chief Wellbeing Officer John Lim shares with us scenarios where we may experience the blues and what we can do to manage such emotions. Read more here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Mental Health in the Workplace (The Straits Times, Nov 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cSCC founder John Shepherd Lim said it is not uncommon for people facing burnout or chronic stress to experience a drop in work productivity and engagement, which will directly impact organisational outcomes and performance.\u201d \u2014 John Shepherd Lim, as quoted in The Straits Times<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

The pandemic has brought about many changes, one of which being the heightened awareness of mental health and its importance on employee wellbeing. In this article by the Straits Times, SCC\u2019s Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, sheds light on the current mental health trends in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of establishing workplace support programmes to protect the mental health of employees. Read more here<\/a> to find out.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Marriage & Infidelity (Mothership, Nov 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“Legally, any act of disloyalty is considered infidelity, for as long as the marital relationship has not legally been nullified.\u201d \u2014 Kenny Chen, professional counsellor at Singapore Counselling Centre<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Is it considered cheating if you enter another relationship amidst divorce proceedings? In this article by Mothership, SCC counsellor Kenny Chen shares common reactions of spouses who were cheated on and the recommendations for couples who are going through a divorce. Read here<\/a> to find out more!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Marriage & Infidelity (CNA Lifestyle, Nov 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cWhile the temptation to cheat might have increased due to the rise in conflicts during the pandemic, along with ready accessibility to dating apps, the desire to stray is a multi-faceted one.” \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by CNA, SCC’s Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares the reasons why men and women cheat, as well as the increasing prevalence of emotional affairs due to advances in technology. Read more here<\/a> to understand the factors that contribute to emotional cheating, and how it can be avoided.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Workplace Harassment (CNA Lifestyle, Oct 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cIt is important to note that when it comes to harassment, a strong indicator lies in how the individual makes you feel.” \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/em><\/p>\n

It can be difficult to draw the line between sexual harassment and seemingly accidental or one-off incidences. In this article by CNA, SCC’s Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares about the red flags of sexual harassment that people usually overlook and what are steps we can take in the event we are victims of workplace harassment, and how we can respond when we feel uncomfortable with the actions or attitudes of others towards us. Read more here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Home-based Learning (Women’s Weekly, Sep 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

In light of the growing number of COVID-19 cases, Primary Schools have returned to home-based learning. What are some struggles students face with home-based learning, and how can parents support them? In this article by The Women\u2019s Weekly, SCC\u2019s Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, shares practical tips for parents to help their child in their academic and social needs during this period of HBL. Read more here<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Teachers’ Mental Health (The Straits Times, Sep 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“We hope that these recommendations will also help parents and students to know of the behavioural changes that they can make in their everyday (interactions) that would really support the teachers in becoming more mentally well.” \u2014 Karen Soon<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

The COVID-19 pandemic has been hard on all of us, but it has been especially hard on this particular group of unsung heroes – our teachers. In this article by The Straits Times, SCC\u2019s Project Lead in SCC\u2019s first initiative, The Teachers\u2019 Series, Karen Soon, shares more on the issues and struggles teachers are facing in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as some recommendations as suggested by teachers to help improve their wellbeing. Read more here<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Identifying Toxic Behaviour (TODAY, Sep 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cWe are all guilty of toxic behavioural patterns from time to time, but the difference lies in how we respond to those who point those things out to us.\u201d \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

It\u2019s common to hear from our social circle about rants of \u201ctoxic\u201d behaviour as they share about the difficult relationships they have experienced. However, what if these toxic behaviours are displayed by our family and loved ones? In this article by Today, SCC\u2019s Chief Wellbeing Officer, John Shepherd Lim, sheds light on what it means to display \u201ctoxic\u201d behaviour and when to draw the line. Read more here<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Importance of Self-care (CNA Lifestyle, Jul 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cIn the long run, self-care helps us to function from a place of wellness and altruism, as having our personal needs met gives us the capacity to fully devote our attention and resources to care for others and contribute to things beyond ourselve<\/span><\/i>s<\/span>.\u201d<\/span> \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by Channel News Asia, SCC’S Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr John Lim sheds light on the importance of prioritising one\u2019s self for our own wellbeing which ultimately allows us to impact others in greater ways than before. Find out more in the article <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>! <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Importance of Communicating Boundaries during Online Dating (The Straits Times, Jul 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

“With individuals looking to meet their partners online, boundaries and expectations need to be constantly communicated so that both parties can be respectful of each other’s time and emotional resources<\/span><\/i>.”<\/span> \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by the Straits Times, SCC\u2019S Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr John Lim shares some advice on how to communicate expectations so as to ensure that time spent on dating platforms is meaningful and purposeful. Find out more in the article <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Pandemic Angst \u2014 Acknowledging Negative Feelings (TODAY, Jul 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cRather than disregarding our negative feelings or invalidating it, it is about facing up to the reality of what is going on around us, while at the same time acknowledging that it is pointless to be bent on controlling uncontrollable thing<\/span><\/i>s.\u201d<\/span> \u2014\u00a0John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by Today, SCC’S Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr John Lim shares with us how the pandemic might be making us feel angrier lately, as well as some tips on how to deal with and reduce our pandemic angst. Read more <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Student Mental Health in light of the COVID-19 Pandemic (TODAY, Jun 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cTo reduce the stigma among students, Mr Lim said that they must be convinced that seeing a counsellor is not a form of punishment but an opportunity for them to receive care and speak openly ab<\/span><\/i>out their troubles.\u201d<\/span> \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In light of the recent school tragedy, mental health is becoming more widely discussed in schools, yet a stigma remains: many students are concerned about how they will be viewed by their parents and peers for seeing a counsellor. In this article by Today, SCC’S Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr John Lim shares how the pandemic has intensified students\u2019 underlying issues and how we should see counselling in a more positive light. Read more <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Managing Differences in Relationships (TODAY, Jun 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cRather than being too assertive about what others \u2018should\u2019 be believing, a more helpful way out is to provide them with information to consider, then respecting their agency for choice on what they eventually decide to think and do<\/span><\/i>.\u201d<\/span> \u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by Today, SCC’S Chief Wellbeing Officer, Dr John Lim, shares with us some practical tips on how to approach a loved one with opposing beliefs, as well as preventing disagreements from going south. Read more <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>

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Social Media & Self-esteem (TODAY, Jul 2021)<\/a><\/h3>\n

\u201cIt is inevitable to experience some level of unhappiness or discontent, but a person\u2019s way of reconciling what they see online with how they view themselves is a process that differs from person to person, and eventually affects the degree to which social media alters their levels of self-acceptance and self-love.\u201d\u2014 John Shepherd Lim<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In this article by TODAY, SCC’S Chief Wellbeing Officer Dr John Lim shares with us the reasons social media can affect our perspective of our self-worth so much, and what we can do to maintain our sense of well-being and self-esteem even as we use social media. Read more here<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>