Awareness – Real needs
Results from the National Youth Epidemiology and Resilience (YEAR) study revealed that 3 out of 25 youths met the full diagnostic criteria for at least one mental health disorder in 2024.
Other findings from National University of Singapore (NUS) also indicated a growing reliance on digital media among youths as a form of self-therapy, emphasizing the importance of enhancing mental health literacy. Professor Crystal Abidin from School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, mentions that youths tend to self-diagnose online, often finding definitions of well-being from people who only exist to fit in the online space. While this connotes youths putting in an effort to better their mental health, it poses a threat when they cannot differentiate what calls for clinical attention and what is being exaggerated for monetization.
This stems from the stigma that exists around seeking help, lack of awareness and accessibility to self-help resources. In fact, 28% of youths surveyed by Sofia Wellness Clinic in 2024 found mental health services in Singapore to be somewhat to very inaccessible.
Accessibility – Our programmes
Hence, MYMCA aims to be at the forefront of improving our youth’s mental health through initiatives such as M.Y Mentoring, which is an experiential learning initiative in schools and communities focused on mental well-being and character development. For youths who prefer one-to-one mentoring sessions, we offer M.Y Mindspace, a small group mentoring session that equips youths with the necessary skills to navigate through different life stages.
By reaching out to them first, MYMCA creates a safe space for youths to meet like-minded people, engage them to volunteer for the community, and equip them with the skills needed to empower themselves and the community.
Action – Our initiative
All efforts require support, funding, and volunteerism. M.Y Sports Fiesta 2025 is our signature fundraising event that invites all to walk or pedal with us to empower our youths and community. In collaboration with TRIBAL Triathlon Singapore and Triathlon Singapore, M.Y Sports Fiesta 2025 aims to raise $180,000 and is eligible for a dollar-to-dollar matching under the Tote Board Enhanced Fundraising Grant.
In our 5th year running, we have 4 routes available this year:
- Cycle: 10km, 30km, 110km
- Family-friendly fun walk: 5km
The 10km, 30km, and 5km routes will be within Sentosa Island, making it a scenic and lively experience for all, while the 110km stretches beyond the Island, offering a challenge for experienced cyclists.
Details:
- Date: Sat, 17th May 2025
- First flag-off time: 5:30am
- Event ends: 11:30am
Every pedal, every step, and every dollar is a leap towards engaging, equipping, and empowering our youths.
Register for the event to cycle / walk: https://www.mysportsfiesta.org/register
Donate to our cause: give.asia/mysportsfiesta2025
Find out more about what we do: https://www.mymca.org.sg/outreach/