Being a part of the community means taking a genuine interest in the needs of our people and nurturing psychological awareness in others.
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TPP articles & Collaborations
Mamahood held an exclusive interview with expert, Ms. Andrea Chong, a Psychologist with The Psychology Practice, who will help us understand more about our children’s psychology, and how it can help to elevate our parenting methods.
Q8. When and why should I bring my child to see a psychologist? What are the factors that I should look for to bring my child to a psychologist before it is too late?
Andrea: One key area of concern would be significant changes to their daily functioning or behaviour such as prolonged changes in their mood where they can be more withdrawn or irritable and when they are showing expressions of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Trust your parental instincts and do note that it is never too late to attend to a child and to offer them support.
![[Ask the Expert] How Emotional Intelligence (EI) Can Help With Your Career — Find out why this rare quality is so important to job success and happiness. The Psychology Practice thepsychpractice](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/590f41292994cac296d1dcba/44dd0828-112b-4eba-9bb2-34397df3eb2c/%5BAsk+the+Expert%5D+How+Emotional+Intelligence+%28EI%29+Can+Help+With+Your+Career+%E2%80%94+Find+out+why+this+rare+quality+is+so+important+to+job+success+and+happiness.+The+Psychology+Practice+thepsychpractice.jpg)
“To get ahead in our career, we’re often told that the more qualified and experienced we are and the wider our professional network, the better off we’ll be. But qualifications, experience and connections alone aren’t enough for career success. If we really want to make an impact – as a colleague or a boss – and be happy in our job, emotional intelligence, or EI, is crucial. EI helps us enjoy better work relationships and also be better communicators, managers and problem solvers in the workplace.”
Dr. Shawn Ee, a clinical psychologist at The Psychology Practice, explains how to recognise and develop this valuable skill.
As Project IBA's very first E-book launch, “It'll Be Alright” features a compilation of mental well-being stories, ranging from personal experiences to mental health tips for youths, by youths. “40 Individuals, 1 Inspiring book” — Each of them has endured through their ups and downs bravely to share with us their mental endeavours today. Do give it a read and we hope these stories touch your soul as much as they did for ours.
In addition, it comes with an accompanying booklet of Letters of Reply by some Professionals in our community who provided some mental health advice and tips for our youth at large. Featured here are letters by Clinical Psychologists Ms. Brenda Lee and Dr. Shawn Ee from The Psychology Practice.
‘Making Sense of the Pathology of Organisational Life Through the Lens of Systems Psychodynamics and Group Relations’ — here’s an excerpt:
"In this article, psychoanalytic ideas are briefly presented as a way for leaders, organisations, organisational consultants, and adminstrators to conceptualise how easily and strongly groups set up defenses to avoid the painful realities about their primary work tasks, relationships with other groups, and performance. Psychoanalysts Wilfred Bion and Melanie Klein's ideas on group dynamics establish group behaviour as a means of dealing with the anxieties of individual members (Hinshelwood & Fortuna, 2018). This view that groups as a whole can develop collective defensive practices is based on the basic idea that if anxiety and conflict are shared with others, there is also an opportunity and permission to collaborate together (or rather, to collude) in defensive practices too.
This underlying dynamic is rampant in organisations that may possess pathological but wholly unconscious ways of operating; some examples are idealisation/devaluation of colleagues, leader/follower betrayal dynamics, and "scapegoating". It follows that attempts to heal these issues require an in-depth understanding of the organisation and its unconscious functions before some intervention can be crafted. To understand how these mechanisms play out in organisational life, we look to some psychoanalytic theory."
Article by Dr. Shawn Ee, Clinical Psychologist & Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist
Link to full issue via Singapore Psychological Society @singaporepsychologicalsociety : https://singaporepsychologicalsociety.org/.../SG-Psych...
We've had the pleasure of contributing a thought-provoking article to The Singapore Psychological Society called, "Anxiety: What Lies Beneath? A Psychoanalytic Perspective on treatment-resistant anxiety presentations" (p. 50), by TPP Director, Dr. Shawn Ee, who is also president of the Psychoanalytic Association of Singapore (PAS).
Here's a synopsis: To describe how aggression lies beneath our anxieties as one of our key psychological motivators, and how it builds, and manifests as anxiety on the surface of our awareness. Anxiety would be conceptualised as a secondary emotion to the primary emotion of anger - The fear of the aggression breaking surface may bring about an unconscious fear of annihilation (of those around the individual) causing the aggression to be suppressed.
Despite an increase in global prevalence of Eating Disorders, there is little conversation and awareness surrounding this issue, especially among peers of the tertiary age group.
In collaboration with National University of Singapore (NUS) students, TPP Clinical Psychologist Ms. Lynette Tan was interviewed for her professional views. This E-book seeks to raise awareness about ED and normalise discussions about mental wellness, body image, and developing a healthy relationship with food and exercise.
In a collaboration with The Singapore Psychological Society publication The Singapore Psychologist, TPP Clinical Psychologist & Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist, Dr. Shawn Ee, detailed an Evidence-based Psychodynamic View on Substance Dependence and Implications for Clinical Practice.
Aptly titled “Attached to My Substance”, the 8-page article (p. 51-58) discusses how substance dependence is related to how we can love and feel attached to our primary caregivers, and considers if we can seek out others the same way if it was an initially damaging experience.
Link to full issue via Singapore Psychological Society @singaporepsychologicalsociety : https://singaporepsychologicalsociety.org/.../SG-Psych...
LOOKING BACK AT 2020 & THE COVID19 ONSLAUGHT
We have had the pleasure of collaborating with a number of like-minded teams who care about our community and creating a psychologically-minded space for thinking and deeper reflection. Let us not succumb to the dread and anxiety of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, but band together so that we can cope better and stand together against this common foe - our collective fear and paranoia.
Remember, we are always better together. Here’s a collection of our webinars in 2020, put together during some of the worst parts of the Circuit Breaker lockdown, extension, and Phase 2.
Love, Team TPP xoxo
TPP fresh off the Press
Psychologists call for regulation, more understanding of their role in mental health
Psychologists call for regulation, more understanding of their role in mental health — A regulatory framework would raise the standards and safeguards of the profession, as it would include a professional body to which they would be accountable, said psychologists and observers, including the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) @singaporepsychologicalsociety …
“Dr Shawn Ee, clinical psychologist and director of The Psychology Practice, said psychologists do not give medical advice nor prescribe medication, unlike a psychiatrist. But the Act in its current form undermines the role of psychological interventions, based on the latest scientific research, as a first-line treatment for many mild to moderately severe mental disorders.
More public education on the work of psychologists is needed to encourage people to be more discerning about choosing a professional to treat one’s mental health concerns, he said …
Dr Ee said regulation would hold psychologists to high expectations and subject them to a strict code of conduct, with consequences if breached.
As an Australian-trained and registered psychologist, Dr Ee said it is common practice in Australia to require stringent background checks by a regulatory body to ensure that psychologists have the necessary credentials and are carrying out their duties ethically and responsibly.”
Full article via @straits_times @ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/psychologists-call-for-regulation-more-understanding-of-their-role-in-mental-health
Concern over TikTok trolls posing as IMH doctors to make fun of mental health issues
"When funny things are repeatedly framed in terms of mental illnesses, it is a matter of time before people begin to take mental illnesses less seriously," he said, adding that this would cause people to be less willing to seek professional help if they need it.
Clinical psychologist at The Psychology Practice, Dr Shawn Ee said it could cause viewers to misdiagnose others or themselves if they take these comments seriously.
"If we see behaviour that we don't understand, we cannot just make comments like these," said Dr Ee, who used to be a clinical psychologist at IMH.
The trend may also create the perception that mental health treatments are quick and easy.
Full article @ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/tiktok-trolls-pose-as-imh-doctors-in-concerning-social-media-trend
Can you spot a scam? Why our minds are more susceptible than we think: Intelligence counts for little against scams when emotions are at play
“Those naturally empathetic may associate closely with someone experiencing difficulty – a process known as identification, explains clinical psychologist Dr Shawn Ee. This makes them more likely to buy into the story of a loved one in trouble or a friend locked out of his Internet banking account, and assist accordingly. Other methods include the ruse of job offers and investment opportunities. What hasn’t changed is the unfortunate refrain among victims, who genuinely thought they were talking to someone they knew.
Humans tend to lean towards confirmation bias, a tendency to seek out or interpret information that is in line with our beliefs. For example, if one has decided that his online paramour is real, he may place inordinate weight on “romantic” gestures and make excuses for the scammer’s suspicious behaviour, such as disappearing for hours at a time – something experienced by victims of the pig butchering romance scam who were duped into making fraudulent investments. In such scams, victims admitted to letting their guard down because scammers played the long game, devoting weeks to building a relationship before moving in for the kill.
“Gaining your trust is the hardest part but once scammers can do so, it’s smooth-sailing for them,” says Dr Ee. Then there is the element of preoccupation, too common in our busy, multitasking lives. Multiple victims say they were too distracted to cross-check scammers’ claims before sending money or OTPs.”
Read the full article via @straits_times @ https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/can-you-spot-a-scam-why-our-minds-are-more-susceptible-than-we-think
Boredom, exposure to domestic violence among reasons people abuse animals: Experts
From amusement to displacement of anger, psychologists say people abuse animals for a wide variety of reasons.
Ms Lynn Tan, clinical psychologist at The Psychology Practice, said that among many reasons, individuals may also hurt animals to impress their friends or for entertainment.
She noted that while there are no local numbers indicating that cats are more susceptible to abuse compared with dogs, cats may remain targets of abuse owing to their smaller size, accessibility, and some of their behaviour traits, such as responses when being attacked.
The views people may have about cats, including their perceived “invulnerability” derived from the saying that cats have nine lives, or beliefs about black cats and luck or attitudes towards strays, may have contributed to them being targets, she added.
Ms Tan said it does not mean that animal abusers will grow up perpetuating violence, although such past behaviour is a risk factor.“ It goes back to understanding the motivators and the underlying reasons why this person abused animals in the first place,” she said.
“With that, we probably have a more nuanced understanding of the level of risk a person might carry in adulthood.” In the same vein, Ms Tan said the prevalence of animal abuse is a threat to societal values.
“We need to speak about animal cruelty and have wider conversations on how our current systems affect prevailing attitudes towards groups that may be different from us. Are we doing justice in building an inclusive society that respects life equally?”
Read on at https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/boredom-exposure-to-domestic-violence-among-reasons-people-abuse-animals-experts
For transgender students, a safe space in university halls is ‘great comfort’ - but not a given
@cnainsider Exclusive — For transgender students, a safe space in university halls is ‘great comfort’ — but not a given.
For some, gender dysphoria can be alleviated by socially transitioning – such as changing their names and/or pronouns, hairstyle and choice of clothing, she said. Others may seek medical interventions like hormone treatment and gender reassignment surgery.
A common misconception about transgender individuals is that they are “just confused”. This is untrue, said Clinical Psychologist Ms Andrea Chong of The Psychology Practice.
Another is that they “can feel happy only if they medically transition”. In reality, individuals have “their own unique experience”, and socially transitioning may be more important for some of them, said Chong, who was previously with the Institute of Mental Health.
Youth is when social identity and having a sense of belonging and community are important, she added. When your freedom to explore yourself and your identity is held back by other people’s views … it can affect your sense of self.
“Because you start to question: Do I have a place in society? Do I belong to any particular social groups? Can people around me accept me for who I am if I tell them the truth?”
Full article @ https://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna-insider/transgender-students-safe-space-university-halls-dorms-gender-neutral-toilets-campus-housing-policy-2752946
![[TPP speaks] Residents say they are physically healthier than before Covid-19 Helplines — But nearly 25% report a decline in mental health, with money woes top cause of anxiety, depression. The Psychology Practice](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/590f41292994cac296d1dcba/ee70eb41-1505-42a5-92e8-e4a14a0205ec/%5BTPP+speaks%5D+Residents+say+they+are+physically+healthier+than+before+Covid-19+Helplines+%E2%80%94+But+nearly+25%25+report+a+decline+in+mental+health%2C+with+money+woes+top+cause+of+anxiety%2C+depression.+The+Psychology+Practice.jpg)
Residents say they are physically healthier than before Covid-19 Helplines
But nearly 25% report a decline in mental health, with money woes top cause of anxiety, depression.
PANDEMIC HAS DISRUPTED PEOPLE'S LIVES
“Covid-19 is an abnormal event that interrupts our way of life... Any major lifestyle change that removes a coping strategy for stress can tip someone over into feeling trapped. For example, avid gym-goers would struggle when gyms are closed.” Dr Shawn Ee, director of The Psychology Practice.
Although nearly a quarter of respondents reported suffering from anxiety and depression in the past year, 68 per cent believe there is a stigma against mental health issues in Singapore. More than 65 per cent would avoid the topic with their family, even when there is an issue.
Dr Shawn Ee, said this decline in mental health was not surprising: "Covid-19 is an abnormal event that interrupts our way of life.”
Courtesy of The Straits Times @ https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/residents-say-they-are-physically-healthier-than-before-covid-19-helplines
RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW NAVIGATING NUPTIALS IN THE NEW NORMAL
Look on the bright side — you and your families now get to enjoy a more relaxed and intimate wedding that truly celebrates the idea of marriage.
THERE’S MORE TO MARRIAGE THAN THE BIG DAY
Ms Lynette Tan, a Clinical Psychologist at The Psychology Practice, says that holding a wedding during these times can present an opportunity for couples to reflect on what the occasion means to them. “They can ask themselves if there is the pressure of having to conform to certain practices that may not actually be meaningful to them as a couple. Instead, they can think about how the wedding can be conducted in a way that is more representative of who they are or even consider personalising the experience for their guests, which may be hard to do on a larger scale. ‘Smaller scale’ does not mean it has to be any less memorable.”
Article courtesy of Channel News Asia @ https://www.channelnewsasia.com/brandstudio/ffl-istilldo/nuptialsinthenewnormal
Explainer |
Dealing with depression: how following a daily routine can help manage emotional well-being
[PHASE-2 feature] Dealing with Depression: How following a daily routine can help manage emotional well-being — as we brace for potential lockdown again!
“Choose activities that add meaning to your life, promote interpersonal connection and have the potential to bring about pleasant experiences,” says Dr Shawn Ee, a clinical psychologist and founder of The Psychology Practice in Singapore. “That way, you’ll feel more motivated to do them, and when you’re engaging in those activities you’ll feel more connected to them. The greater the sense of connection, the more meaningful the activity will feel and the more pleasure you’ll derive from it. This can really help shift your emotional state.”
“What you shouldn’t do is use these activities as an emotional escape. So for instance, if exercise is part of your routine, it should be because it makes you feel healthy and strong and allows you to spend time with friends, and not because it helps you avoid dealing with negative feelings.”
Article courtesy of South China Morning Post @ https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3132883/dealing-depression-how-following-daily-routine-can-help
How friends can help reduce stress, anxiety and grief; why you need a vent buddy
"Offloading to people doesn't just signal a desire for support or assistance," says Dr Shawn Ee, a clinical psychologist and director of The Psychology Practice in Singapore.
"It has psychological benefits as well, in that it allows us to share our concerns and frustrations safely, without the threat of rejection or dismissal."
There are a few things to be mindful of when baring your soul to someone. Dr Ee says that it's possible to "burden" your friend with your problems, causing them to feel anxious, worried or stressed, too.
"That's why you should ask them beforehand if it's okay for you to share and for them to listen. Otherwise, they may not give you the time and attention you need and you may end up feeling like nobody cares."
Dr Ee adds that you should be selective about who you seek support from, as not everyone may be empathetic to your problems — and some friends may not be as reliable or trustworthy as you might expect them to be.
Before opening up, ask how doing so will help you. Are you looking for solutions or advice, or do you just want someone to empathise with you?
Emotional "dumping" or negative venting isn't always healthy — Dr Ee says that talking about the same issues over and over again may also be a sign that you do not want to deal with what's at the heart of those problems.
Courtesy of South China Morning Post SCMP Lifestyle and TODAY @ https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3124232/how-friends-can-help-reduce-stress-anxiety-and-grief-why
https://www.todayonline.com/world/how-friends-can-help-reduce-stress-anxiety-and-grief-why-you-need-vent-buddy
家人患癌情绪低落 我能做些什么？
Interviews with Lianhe Zaobao 联合早报 zaobao.sg 生活娱乐: TPP Clinical Psychologist Ms Lynette Tan on 'What we can do when our family suffers from cancer'.
Read the full interview article @ https://www.zaobao.com.sg/zlifestyle/beauty-health/story20161009-675730
Pandemic diaries: Letters, videos and illustrated poetry from migrant workers
The ability to express oneself is crucial as part of our healthy emotional repertoire. There is nothing normal about what COVID-19 has brought upon us. The sheer reality of loss and grief affects everyone from young children all the way up to older adults. When confronted with having to deal with our emotional pains at various levels, requires us to express ourselves in useful ways. We need ways to make sense of our internal experiences. One of which, is the concept of ‘externalisation’. By writing to COVID-19, we place the object of our anger/ frustrations/ sadness/ disappointments (amongst others) on the target board, almost in a cathartic way, as opposed to taking it in (keeping it there helplessly), and feeling like we have no way to respond to it. The impact of being able to have a rant at or communicate to COVID-19, is that we may be able to retrieve some sense control under a situation that is essentially uncertain.
“Dr Shawn Ee, director of The Psychology Practice, says expressing negative emotions offers a form of catharsis. It is a way to cope with grief, or loss of reality, that can arise from the unlikely circumstances. Being able to rant at or communicate about Covid-19 allows people to retrieve some sense of control in an uncertain situation.”
Courtesy of The Straits Times @ https://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/pandemic-diaries-letters-videos-and-illustrated-poetry-from-migrant-workers
Stay tuned for more content to come.