1 in 3 Singaporeans Aged 15-35 Report Severe Stress and Anxiety
A new study reveals that 30.6% of Singaporean youths experience severe symptoms of stress, anxiety, or depression. Factors such as excessive social media use, cyberbullying, and body image concerns are significant contributors.
According to Associate Professor Swapna Verma, Chairman of the Medical Board at the Institute of Mental Health and co-principal investigator of the study, “Social media exposes [youths] to constant comparisons, intensifying concerns about body image.”
“The anonymity of the online world has also given rise to cyberbullying, which adds a new dimension of harassment that can be relentless and far-reaching.” she said.
Anxiety and Stress Skyrocketing Among Singaporeans
For many, the digital world is a major trigger. Social media, once heralded as a way to connect and engage, has turned into a relentless source of stress. The study shows that youths who spend more than three hours daily on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook are significantly more likely to report severe mental health issues.
Stress and anxiety also have profound effects on physical health. Dr Tay Kai Hong, a psychiatrist at Private Space Medical, emphasised.
“Stress really affects the whole body. You might have giddiness, lightheadedness. We might also experience stomach churning. Some people even vomit when they are under immense stress.” he said.
Chronic stress also weakens the immune system, making individuals more prone to illness.
“Individuals tend to fall sick more often when they are under chronic stress,” adds Dr Tay, highlighting how stress impacts both mental and physical health.
Watch now: Coping With Depression & Anxiety | Dr Jacqueline Cheung (Psychiatrist)
The Pressure of Body Image on Mental Health
Body image concerns are a major source of anxiety and stress for young Singaporeans. 20.2% of youths reported moderate to severe worries about their body shape. The constant exposure to unrealistic beauty standards on social media has played a key role in amplifying these concerns. Flawless bodies, often heavily edited or filtered, dominate online platforms, creating a distorted sense of what is “normal” or “desirable.”
This pressure to conform to impossible ideals deeply impacts mental health. Young people who are preoccupied with their body image are nearly five times more likely to experience severe symptoms of depression and anxiety.
For some, these concerns lead to unhealthy behaviours, such as disordered eating or excessive exercise, further worsening their mental health.
Women, in particular, are disproportionately affected. The study revealed that females are more likely than males to experience significant body image concerns. This reflects the powerful influence of societal expectations, which can shape self-worth, especially in a digital culture that prioritises appearance.
Cyberbullying Increasing Stress and Anxiety in Singaporeans
21% of young Singaporeans reported being victims of cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying is persistent and often anonymous, making it even more challenging for victims to escape or seek help.
The effects are severe. Victims of cyberbullying are twice as likely to experience severe symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety compared to those who have not been targeted.
For many, the continuous threat of harassment and public humiliation takes a profound toll on their mental health. The anonymity provided by the internet allows aggressors to act without fear of repercussions, worsening the impact on those they target.
Excessive Social Media Use and Its Link to Stress and Anxiety in Singaporeans
Social media platforms, with their constant stream of idealised lifestyles and unattainable beauty standards, might trigger feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. Youths who spend extensive time on these platforms are 1.5 times more likely to experience depression and 1.6 times more likely to suffer from anxiety. The endless comparisons and pressure to project a perfect life make it difficult for individuals to feel content with their own experiences.
Moreover, the nature of social media fosters an always-on mentality. Young people feel compelled to stay connected, at the expense of their mental well-being. The pressure to engage, respond, and present a curated image adds another layer of stress, further intensifying feelings of anxiety.
Associate Professor Mythily Subramaniam, Assistant Chairman of the Medical Board (Research) at the Institute of Mental Health and co-principal investigator of the study, shared, “Excessive social media use is a public health concern and has tremendous impact on youth mental health.”
“It is important that young people, parents, [and] educators pay attention to these issues, recognise signs of distress early and develop healthy boundaries.”
Addressing Stress and Anxiety in Singaporeans
Despite the rise in stress and anxiety, nearly one-third of those facing severe mental health symptoms do not seek help. Stigma around mental health remains a major barrier, with many fearing judgement or believing that their problems are not serious enough to warrant professional support.
Dr Geraldine Tan, Principle Psychologist from The Therapy Room, encourages individuals to seek help even if they feel only mildly uncomfortable.
“If you’re feeling uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to come forward, just ask somebody, ask a professional. We will be able to help you discern whether it’s a clinical issue, or whether it’s just a little hump that we need to go over.”
“Some patients with depression say even lifting a toothbrush is so heavy for them, they can’t even do that, or smiling. We don’t want to get to that stage before we seek help—we want to intervene when we are just uncomfortable.”
Helpline numbers
If you need help or a listening ear, there are hotlines available wherever you may be. Do not hesitate to reach out:
- Singapore: 1800-221-44441 (SOS)
- Malaysia: (03) 7956 8144, (03) 7956 81452
- Thailand: 1300 (One Stop Crisis Centre)
- Philippines: 0919 777 7377 (PNP Women and Children’s Protection Center)
- Indonesia: +62 811 943 6633 (Yayasan Pulih)
