By Carol Goh
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It’s common to hear students grumble about stress—from primary through tertiary levels. Before we label youths as a “strawberry generation,” let’s look at why many teens in Singapore struggle with stress, anxiety, and low mood, and how evidence-based counselling helps.
Common issues we help teens with
Exam stress & fear of failure
High expectations and comparisons fuel worry about grades, JC/Poly choices, and future careers. Persistent worry often disrupts sleep and daily functioning.
Relationship problems & tough breakups
First romances can be intense. Breakups may trigger low mood or depression-like symptoms. See also: Beating a Breakup Hurts.
Teenage pregnancy
Stigma and family reactions (anger, disappointment, withdrawal) can lead to shame, loneliness, depression, or post-traumatic stress after birth.
Self-harm
Some teens hurt themselves to cope with numbness, guilt, shame, or hopelessness. Triggers include rejection, conflicts, and bullying. If safety is a concern, please WhatsApp us immediately (opens in new tab).
Risky behaviours (substances, binge drinking)
To “fit in” or escape anxiety/depression, teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol.
Low self-esteem & eating concerns
Bullying, peer pressure, and social-media comparisons can spiral into body image distress and disordered eating. Related read: Conquering Low Self-esteem Through Psychotherapy.
Abuse (sexual, physical, emotional)
Abuse often leaves shame and unworthiness, and may evolve into anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms without support.
Family conflict & parenting styles
Authoritarian or uninvolved parenting, parental mental health or substance issues, and divorce can leave teens feeling helpless and abandoned. For parents, see Connecting with Your “Rebellious” Teenagers.
Anger
Anger is often the visible tip of deeper shame, fear, hurt, rejection, or humiliation. If unaddressed, it can isolate teens and strain families. Learn more: Anger Management.
How youth counselling helps
At Emotional Wellness Counselling Singapore, we start by mapping the teen’s fears, beliefs, and triggers—from comments by parents/teachers/peers to private self-talk. Many painful beliefs live in the subconscious and need experiential work to shift.
We then personalise therapy using:
- EMDR for trauma, shame, and stuck memories that drive present reactions.
Learn more: EMDR - Schema Therapy to transform lifelong “I’m not good enough / unlovable” traps.
Deep dive: Schema Therapy - Inner-child dialogue to give the hurt self a voice and receive corrective care.
- CBT & skills for thought patterns, sleep, study routines, and emotion regulation.
- Parent coaching (when appropriate) to align boundaries, validation, and support.
The aim is not just symptom relief, but resilience—so teens can enjoy school life, friendships, and family with steadier confidence.
What changes to expect
- Calmer sleep and energy; fewer panic spikes
- Healthier coping (vs. self-harm / substances)
- Improved focus and study habits
- Stronger self-esteem and body image
- Reduced reactivity; clearer communication at home
- Safer boundaries in friendships/relationships
For broader context, see Psychotherapy and our structured pathway The RENEW Program.
Make an appointment
- Contact us or book an appointment
- Sessions available in-person or online
The information in this article is for educational purposes and isn’t a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
