By Cao Yuhan (24S03M), Chandrasekaran Shreya (24S06A)
“That very first wave; it really seemed like there was no light at the end of the tunnel.”
Dr Tang Kong Choong
In light of Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW), Dr Tang Kong Choong visited RI to share his insights on and experiences with mental health. With a focus on the unique multitude of setbacks COVID-19 had presented to us–his sharing served as the perfect opener, with many Rafflesians relating to the process of picking themselves up from failure or mishap.
As Dr Tang recalled the hardships faced by the healthcare industry during COVID-19, the air about him seemed grim, students quietly and intently listening to him. Dr Tang spoke about various challenges and the ways doctors and nurses overcame them with grit. The community’s collective tenacity, resilience and selflessness enabled them to bounce back and find that seemingly absent “light”.
With the gruelling mid-year CT season now behind us, it seems fitting that from 27th July 2023, Raffles Peer Helpers, RI’s group of Y5 students who advocate for mental health and counsel students in need, will be hosting the annual MHAW, “Be Real, For Real”. The theme, inspired by the app “BeReal”, is meant to convey the idea of letting loose and showing one’s authentic self.
From 27th July to 4th August, mental health awareness booths, photo booths and a lucky draw will be set up at the canteen walkway, painstakingly prepared by our Peer Helpers. Do show them your support!
Look out for special activities happening throughout the week too. From busking performances by our very own rock and jazz bands to popcorn and VR games along the canteen walkway, participate in these and give yourself a much-needed break from the year-round academic grind.
If you do not want to miss out on the fun, visit @rafflespeerhelpers on Instagram to check out the timeline and highlights of the activities.
