Why caring for your mental health should be part of everyday life

Published on 24 May 2026

Mental health is a crucial aspect of everyday wellbeing, yet many people only seek help when they reach breaking point. Megawati, Nurse Clinician at NUHS Community Care explains why recognising the early signs matters.

At a glance

• Mental health is part of holistic wellness, not just something linked to illness or crisis.

• Early warning signs such as fatigue, irritability and social withdrawal are often overlooked or dismissed as stress. 

• Support today extends beyond hospitals, with community spaces, Community Health Posts, and digital resources making help more accessible.

For many people, the term “mental health” is still associated with severe illness or something to fear.

But according to Megawati, Nurse Clinician at the National University Health System (NUHS) Community Care, that perception is one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding the topic.

“When people hear ‘mental health,’ they often think of serious mental illness that cannot be cured, which creates fear and shame,” she said. “However, the reality is that mental health is simply about how we feel and cope with daily life, just like physical health is about how our body functions.” 

Mental health, she explained, is something everyone has, regardless of age or circumstance. It shapes how people manage stress, relationships and emotions, and can fluctuate depending on life’s demands.

“It’s not something only ‘sick’ people have,” she said. “It’s something we all have and can take care of, just like brushing our teeth or eating healthy.”

The warning signs many people miss

Despite the importance of caring for one’s mental health, there are individuals who still wait until they feel overwhelmed before seeking help.

Beyond concerns about stigma or appearing weak, one major reason is that early warning signs are often subtle and easy to dismiss. 

A 2022 Singapore study found that one in three people experience mental health issues, yet many delay seeking help for months or even years.

Changes in sleep patterns, persistent fatigue, irritability or withdrawing from social activities are some of the early signs that may go unnoticed. Mental strain can also appear physically through headaches, tense muscles, stomach discomfort, or changes in appetite.

“You might notice changes in your sleep patterns or feel constantly tired even after a full night’s rest,” said Megawati. “Your mood may shift, and you get annoyed more easily, feel persistently down, or start avoiding friends, family and activities you used to enjoy.”

She noted that these signs often develop subtly over time, making it easy for people to explain them away as “just stress” or a normal part of ageing.

“The problem is that these signs appear gradually, so we often explain them away as ‘just stress’ or ‘getting older,’ missing the chance to get help early when it’s most effective,” she said.

Different life stages bring different pressures

In her work with older residents, Megawati often sees people struggling with major life changes such as retirement, declining physical health, caregiving responsibilities, and social isolation.

“Many feel embarrassed about needing help with daily activities, medication, or even leaving their homes, which affects their social connectivity and mental health,” she said.

At the same time, younger adults are facing mounting pressures of their own.

“The high-stress work environment, combined with constant worries about falling behind others, creates intense competition in every aspect of life,” Megawati noted.

Social media has intensified comparison culture and fear of missing out, while financial pressures such as rising living costs, expensive rentals and long BTO waiting times add further stress.

“These overlapping challenges occur during the critical life stage when young adults are establishing independence and forming their identity,” she explained.

Many are also balancing careers while caring for both children and ageing parents, placing them under significant emotional and physical strain. 

Megawati recalled supporting a resident who was caring for young children while also looking after her mother, who had dementia.

“The constant juggling act, which includes rushing from school pickups to medical appointments, and managing her job while coordinating care plans, was taking a significant toll on her own mental wellbeing,” she said.

“She was experiencing anxiety, exhaustion and guilt.” 

By recognising these warning signs early, the team was able to connect the family with additional support services.

“This shows how mental health support isn’t just about the individual,” said Megawati. “Sometimes we need to look at the whole family system.”

Moving away from crisis-only care

Megawati believes society needs to rethink how mental health is approached, and shift from reactive care to preventive support.

“We need to normalise regular mental health check-ins just like annual physical health checks, even when people feel fine,” she said. 

She added that seeking support early should be seen as a sign of strength and self-awareness, rather than weakness.

“To break the crisis-only mindset, we must shift from reactive to proactive mental health care,” she said. “Just like physical fitness, we shouldn’t wait until we’re in distress to prioritise mental wellness.”

Thankfully, support today is also becoming more accessible within the community. Across NUHS wellness hubs such as Wellness Space @ Clementi Peaks and Happy Village @ Mei Ling, provides residents with activities and programmes aimed at strengthening social connection and resilience.

“These spaces recognise that mental wellness isn’t just about treating problems. It’s about building resilience and community bonds,” said Megawati.

Residents can also seek support through Community Health Posts located within neighbourhoods, making it easier to access information and assistance closer to home.

“What’s really shifted is where care happens,” she added. “Your health journey doesn’t have to start at a hospital. Support can be just around your home.”

Small habits can protect mental wellbeing

While professional support is important, Megawati said everyday habits also play a significant role in maintaining mental wellness.

“Physical and physiological habits form the foundation,” she said, pointing to the importance of regular sleep, exercise, and balanced nutrition.

She also encouraged mindfulness practices, setting realistic goals and recognising negative thought patterns before they escalate.

Social connection is equally important.

“One habit that’s often underestimated is community connection,” she said. 

Megawati noted that NUHS runs wellness programmes and community events throughout the year, while the NUHS app and website also provides bite-sized resources on healthy habits and sleep.

“It’s much easier to build healthy habits when you are not doing it alone, and that’s what our community programmes are built around,” she said. 

Her advice is to start small and focus on consistency.

“Build one habit at a time,” she said. “The key is making gradual, sustainable changes that are achievable.”

In consultation with Megawati, Nurse Clinician, NUHS Community Care.