# data[].attributes.headline
Have there been times when you felt stressed because of school, for example, due to expectations of workload?

# data[].attributes.subject
Have there been times when you felt stressed because of school, for example, due to expectations of workload?

# data[].attributes.body
I mean, yeah, especially during my primary school years, you know, everyone expected, like, everything out of me, like my teacher would. My teacher would keep, you know, motivating me like you know, is doing whatever she could to push me as a person, pushed me in, like academics, and my mom would like, also, you know, force me to take up tuition classes, which, you know, I didn't like, but, you know, I had to, because my parents wanted me to succeed, right? So, you know, with that knowledge, I kind of like I was really stressed out. So I would study really hard, most nights without sleep, quite late, focusing on that you know, what to study next

# data[].attributes.headline
Were there any ways in particular that were helpful for you when coping with your stress? If any? (Part 1)

# data[].attributes.subject
Were there any ways in particular that were helpful for you when coping with your stress? If any? (Part 1)

# data[].attributes.body
During my PSLE, a good way. Okay, one of the methods I used to cope with my stress was I played Fortnite a lot. I used to play as a multiplayer battle royale, first person shooter game called Fortnite, and with my with my classmates, of course, yes. And oftentimes, the conversations would start off as, like, you know, oh, how do you do, how do you do this question, how do you, how do you solve this? How do you solve this? Blah, blah, blah, you know, academically stuff. And then slowly, as we play the game, like the conversations would shift more towards, more towards more of a, you know, a calm, playful kind of tone, yeah.

# data[].attributes.headline
Problem Statement: How can we enable students in Singapore to have a well-balanced schooling experience?

# data[].attributes.subject
Problem Statement: How can we enable students in Singapore to have a well-balanced schooling experience?

# data[].attributes.body
Problem Statement: How serious is the mental health crisis among students right now?

# data[].attributes.body
Problem Statement: How is Singapore’s academically driven education system contributing to student mental health challenges that remain insufficiently addressed?

# data[].attributes.headline
When life gets really overwhelming or stressful, what’s your go-to way of dealing with it? Like, what actually helps you feel a little more okay?

# data[].attributes.subject
When life gets really overwhelming or stressful, what’s your go-to way of dealing with it? Like, what actually helps you feel a little more okay?

# data[].attributes.body
Interviwee's Response:

"I usually go to the gym to exercise to clear off the mind, go to nearby stadium to run, sitting in silence in my room to take in everything and organize my own thought process or listen to my favourite songs or listening to a on going podcast. "

" I also work more at my own part time job at starbucks to get myself distracted and kill time so that i do not the time to think about their stresses, i also cooking my favourite home cooked meal to enjoy."

" I also talk to my close friends in my polytechnic friend group for advice and to vent to them about my problems which helps me feel alot better mentally and more stable"

# data[].attributes.headline
What do you think people—especially adults—get totally wrong about what teens go through mentally and emotionally?

# data[].attributes.subject
What do you think people—especially adults—get totally wrong about what teens go through mentally and emotionally?

# data[].attributes.body
" I feel that adults undermine the importance and depth of mental health in teenagers, often dismissing teen struggles—like anxiety, identity crises, or intense emotions—as temporary or unimportant, they think that whatever teenagers these day suffer from is all because of social media or their phones but in reality it is always caused by the adults around them. I feel like the main cause of bad mental health based on the people around me are always caused by their parents, thats just my opinion"

" I think parents like to dismiss our words. For example you go up to them and tell them that u have something to say or i have something that i am carrying heavy in my heart can u please listen to me, they dont really listen, they just end up bringing up their past like "back in my days i used to had it worser than you, i think you should be grateful for what you have right now" they dont really listen to your problems, they just dismiss it. So how is that going to make me trust them and tell them about any of my future problems or plans as i am always going to think of them negatively"

# data[].attributes.headline
Were there any ways in particular that were helpful for you when coping with your stress? If any? (Part 2)

# data[].attributes.subject
Were there any ways in particular that were helpful for you when coping with your stress? If any? (Part 2)

# data[].attributes.body
And as for my O levels. One method I used to combat stress was, I mean, yeah, one method I used to combat stress was, I guess skateboarding, yeah. It's meeting new people who I thought were interesting, hanging out with them and, like, you know, practicing the art of skateboarding. It was pretty sick, pretty awesome, pretty cool to me. So, yeah, I didn't really feel too stressed then, because, you know, my management method was effective for me.

# data[].attributes.headline
What’s something you really wish adults got about teen mental health? Like, if you could sit them down and explain it, what would you say?

# data[].attributes.subject
What’s something you really wish adults got about teen mental health? Like, if you could sit them down and explain it, what would you say?

# data[].attributes.body
" I would sit them down and say to them that mental health is a very real and on going crisis that is happening in Singapore that is caused by many different things not just the stereotypical ideation of mental health causes, it could be anything like it could be them, they themselves causing the depletion of mental health on someone else. They need to realise that if its them, they need to learn to change and be aware of their actions and words more.

# data[].attributes.headline
So to give you some background info, Singapore ranks highly in global education systems due to its focus on academics and exams like the PSLE and O levels. However, this pressure has also impacted student well being, with 86% of Singaporean students reporting that they worry about getting poor grades, compared to the global average of 66% so what are your thoughts on this finding? Does it reflect your own experience or that of your peers?

# data[].attributes.subject
So to give you some background info, Singapore ranks highly in global education systems due to its focus on academics and exams like the PSLE and O levels. However, this pressure has also impacted student well being, with 86% of Singaporean students reporting that they worry about getting poor grades, compared to the global average of 66% so what are your thoughts on this finding? Does it reflect your own experience or that of your peers?

# data[].attributes.body
"I noticed a lot of them (classmates) were being sent to like, for tuition classes the you know, I mean, their parents cared a lot, which, you know, obviously, if your parents care a lot about something, you will care a lot about it too."

# data[].attributes.headline
Internal academic pressure taking a toll on student's mental health? 

# data[].attributes.subject
Internal academic pressure taking a toll on student's mental health? 

# data[].attributes.body
Interviewee's Response to Interview Question "how has your mental or emotional well being being affected by your academic journey?"

Mostly in my school, usually I feel stressed or like worried because um of my exams. Like, how am I gonna cope with my exam? How am I gonna pass my exams and then kind of be afraid, like, what if I don't get the grades I want? So a lot of pressure, and I don't really want to let somebody down also, especially my parents.

# data[].attributes.headline
How does your current learning experience in Polytechnic compare to your earlier schooling years?

# data[].attributes.subject
How does your current learning experience in Polytechnic compare to your earlier schooling years?

# data[].attributes.body
My current learning experience in Polytechnic is, I would say... I love it here. It's more flexible. I get to learn what I like to learn, in my case, EEE, whereas in my earlier school years, right, I will be forced to learn, like mother tongue Chinese, even though I wasn't, I'm not ethnically Chinese.

# data[].attributes.headline
Students less likely to approach counsellors for help 

# data[].attributes.subject
Students less likely to approach counsellors for help 

# data[].attributes.body
Interviewee Response to this question "Can you describe any moments where you felt the system supported your well-being or conversely neglected?"

"I feel like the system, the education system, that the education system, um they will bring like say like counselors to come to Singapore, I mean, say come to school and give a talk that actually opens up students if they need help to approach them, but still, most students like still um, they're very reluctant to do personally, i feel and but they are doing their best to improve the students part. Still there are some students who find it very difficult lah, you cannot um i mean you can't the perfect solution for everyone so there are some gaps obviously i feel."

# data[].attributes.headline
Suggestions to have a more balanced education system

# data[].attributes.subject
Suggestions to have a more balanced education system

# data[].attributes.body
Interviewee response to question " if the education system were to evolve to better support student well being. What changes would you hope to see?"

"I feel like er I hope that the system becomes more balanced. What I mean is less stress and then maybe hands on? To better ourselves in the job or coming industry. Okay? We are going to be working on and maybe focus on, not only the grades, maybe other stuff like as well."

# data[].attributes.headline
Could there have been any changes to, for example, the school system or the way they taught things that would have benefited you in your learning?

# data[].attributes.subject
Could there have been any changes to, for example, the school system or the way they taught things that would have benefited you in your learning?

# data[].attributes.body
I would say, you know, home based learning is a big no go for me. You know, as a, as a teenager, early teen years, I feel like having structure and having some form of, like supervised learning would have a, you know, really straightened me out, in terms of academically. And on top of that, I feel like more, let's say, supervised, hands on learning teaching techniques could have been used by my teachers, maybe, or just the school, to further enhance my understanding of concepts that I struggle to understand.

# data[].attributes.body
QUESTION ASKED: What was the main reason you chose this among all the other courses?

RESPONSE: The main reason would be that, from a young age, I've, I've always been passionate about, you know, the inner workings of electronic devices, let's say your computer or smartphones, or even like your washing machine or fridge, like the I've been interested In, like the architecture of, you know, these, these electrical appliances, yeah.

# data[].attributes.headline
In secondary school or before Polytechnic, did you get any chance to explore any of these interests?

# data[].attributes.subject
In secondary school or before Polytechnic, did you get any chance to explore any of these interests?

# data[].attributes.body
No, actually, I wasn't given the opportunity to explore all of these maybe, maybe I explored them through YouTube videos. That's a, that's probably the most exposure I've ever had to, you know, EEE before joining poly.

# data[].attributes.headline
Have you ever felt like you had to act differently just to fit in or meet other people’s expectations? How did that mess with your head, if at all?

# data[].attributes.subject
Have you ever felt like you had to act differently just to fit in or meet other people’s expectations? How did that mess with your head, if at all?

# data[].attributes.body
" Actually, ive never had to act like i had to fit in, because to be honest im naturally being myself as im always acting very weird around everyone im close to and they just live with it. I honestly dont really care if they like it or dont like it. After all, i like being myself "

# data[].attributes.headline
So in your entire life, there wasnt any moments whereby you had to act differently, not just in school but perhaps with your family, work, new environment or situations with people you just met?"

# data[].attributes.subject
So in your entire life, there wasnt any moments whereby you had to act differently, not just in school but perhaps with your family, work, new environment or situations with people you just met?"

# data[].attributes.body
" Perhaps my family, i have to be more extra careful with the stuff i say, as i cannot say any vulgarities, inappropriate language infront of them or anything stupid i say compared to being with my friends so i have to tweak this part abit and change the way i act but thats about it. "

# data[].attributes.headline
Are your parents the one mainly contributing to your depletion in mental health or are there any other reasons such as school or besides family?

# data[].attributes.subject
Are your parents the one mainly contributing to your depletion in mental health or are there any other reasons such as school or besides family?

# data[].attributes.body
" Actually, my family used to be one of the reasons why my mental health is depleting but not anymore as they have realised that i am going through alot so they try their best to be more lenient on me or try to be nicer. I see that and i am happier that they are doing that. So right now the main problem that is causing my mental health would be mostly my own personal issues like work as the environment sometimes can be very pushy and stressful for me."

# data[].attributes.headline
Any advice you wish you could tell adults about teenager mental health?

# data[].attributes.subject
Any advice you wish you could tell adults about teenager mental health?

# data[].attributes.body
" Dont always jump into assumptions that for example someone is going through some issues because of someone else. It may be because of many various reasons, you cant just assume that. It is going to make the whole situation worse "

# data[].attributes.headline
If you could create the kind of support or mental health help that would actually work for teens, what would it look like?

# data[].attributes.subject
If you could create the kind of support or mental health help that would actually work for teens, what would it look like?

# data[].attributes.body
"I feel like in general teenagers will only open up to people they are close with, people they relate to and trust. For me, i wouldnt be able to create a safe circle for strangers but of course im always able to create a safe space for my friends that they can come to talk when they need and trust me with their problems."

# data[].attributes.headline
How do you see yourself these days? And how does that view of yourself affect your confidence or how you show up in the world?

# data[].attributes.subject
How do you see yourself these days? And how does that view of yourself affect your confidence or how you show up in the world?

# data[].attributes.body
" Recently, ive been getting more confident compared to last time. Last time i used to be very insecure of myself but these days im learning to be proud of my image, myself and the little things i am doing, the little achievements i do everyday. No matter what people say about me i just brush it off as long as i am proud of myself i am okay."

# data[].attributes.headline
When did you first realize that your mental health is something real and important—not just some buzzword? What does it mean to you personally?

# data[].attributes.subject
When did you first realize that your mental health is something real and important—not just some buzzword? What does it mean to you personally?

# data[].attributes.body
" I started realising it was very important when i got out of a phase where i stop hurting myself, i realised that mental health is very important. If it gets to a point where you just want to die, it is really bad. If you dont help yourself or take steps to try and help yourself or feel better about yourself, you might end up losing yourself which might even end up losing someone else too. Thats when i realised my mental health was at its worse. "

" I would tell my younger old self that dont think too much about what others think about you or how they view you as it cannot be controlled, just be yourself. People will always pick out the flaws in you, be mean to you, but just never take it to heart and always know that you have to be proud of yourself and dont be too harsh on yourself."

# data[].attributes.body
1. She needs a better way to communicate with her parents about her struggles without being hurt or dismissed

Solutions:

1. Use Calm Check-In Times
– Schedule conversations during peaceful moments (e.g., after dinner) instead of during conflict or stress.

2. Start With a Written Letter or Text Message
– Express difficult thoughts in writing first to avoid emotional miscommunication or being cut off.

3. Use “I Feel” Statements
– Practice using non-blaming language like: “I feel unheard when…” instead of “You never listen.”

4. Set Boundaries for Respect
– Politely but firmly say, “I’d like to talk only if it stays respectful and calm.”

5. Ask for Listening Time Only
– Say in advance, “I’m not asking for advice — I just need you to hear me today.”

6. Involve a Third Party if Needed
– Speak to a school counselor, older sibling, or mentor who can help mediate or give advice on approaching parents.

2. She needs a better way to balance her studies and other aspects important to her personal development

✅ Solutions:

1. Use a Weekly Planner with Personal Goals
– Block out time for rest, hobbies, and reflection, just like study sessions.

2. Apply the “3-3-3” Method
– Choose 3 academic tasks, 3 personal tasks, and 3 well-being tasks per week to stay balanced and avoid overload.

3. Learn to Say “No” or “Not Now”
– Avoid overcommitting by politely turning down activities that don’t support her goals right now.

4. Create Morning or Evening Routines
– Build structure that includes personal growth (journaling, meditation, reading, etc.) alongside study habits.

5. Use a Time-Tracking App or Pomodoro Timer
– Helps visually break up the day and include space for both work and self-care.

6. Reflect Weekly
– Ask: “Did I grow in more than one area this week?” Adjust next week’s plan based on what felt missing.

3. She needs to understand her grades do not define her

✅ Solutions:

1. Write a Personal Definition of Success
– Define what “success” looks like beyond school (e.g., growth, happiness, relationships, self-discipline).

2. Make a List of Strengths Unrelated to School
– Acknowledge talents in creativity, kindness, problem-solving, or leadership.

3. Keep a “Growth Journal”
– Write down lessons learned, not just grades received. Celebrate effort and progress.

4. Talk to Role Models Who Struggled in School
– Gain perspective from real people who succeeded without perfect grades.

5. Limit Comparison
– Reduce social media or peer comparison and focus on her own self goals and journey.

6. Practicing Self-Compassion
– If a bad grade happens, ask: “What would I say to a friend in my situation?” and apply the same kindness inward.

# data[].attributes.body
1. She needs a better way to communicate with her parents about her struggles without having to be afraid of being hurt or dismissed.

Solutions:

1. Involve a trusted third party like a teacher or a counsellor to help mediate conversations with her parents

2. Organise a time to talk with her parents in advance and set an expectation beforehand so both sides are more prepared

3. Rather than expecting her parents to change, she can talk about her thoughts and feelings more for their understanding

4. Talking about her struggles while on a walk with her parents for a change in environment can help

5. Sign up for events with parents that help to promote better communication between parents and children.

2. She needs a way to better balance her studies and other aspects important to her personal development

1. Set priorities first to understand how much time and effort has to be allocated for studies, family and friends and hobbies

2. Involve friends as much as possible, not only to keep you accountable but also as moral support through difficult tasks

3. Start the week with a rough plan drawn out on how much time to spend on studies, hobbies, friends, etc. Frequently check back on the plan throughout the week and make changes accordingly.

4. Allocate time away from phones and computers whenever possible to allow more time for hobbies and personal interactions

3. She needs to understand that her grades do not define her.

1. Explore and pick up new hobbies that excite her

2. Join communities of people who share similar interests to find meaning outside of studies

3. Talk to people who might have went through the same situation of stressing over grades and asking for advice

4. Talk to friends and family about what they appreciate about her or what they like about her beyond her studies (third party opinion)

# data[].attributes.headline
How about the academic workload that comes with studying the course that you are studying as of now which does or does not affect your mental health? 

# data[].attributes.subject
How about the academic workload that comes with studying the course that you are studying as of now which does or does not affect your mental health? 

# data[].attributes.body
" I think academic is one of the reasons that is depleting my mental health but it is not so bad as i feel that sometimes i enjoy studying and when i do not enjoy studying i do not force myself to study as i have my future in mind. So i feel like my future career does not need alot of studying ot academic pressure as it is just more of physical fitness so i dont really take academics too hard on myself. I just try my best to pass and get the best results i can."