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Resources For Expat Mental Health in Singapore@ LISTENING EAR COUNSELLING & CONSULTANCY PTE. LTD.

Curated Resources For Expat Mental Health in Singapore

Settling into life as an expatriate or new immigrant in Singapore can be both exciting and challenging. Navigating relocation and adapting to cross-cultural dynamics, such as local customs and societal expectations, can bring about unique adjustment challenges. Whether you’re managing mental health support, seeking information on visa services, or striving to understand Singapore’s diverse cultural landscape, our curated resources are designed to offer non-judgemental, discreet, and confidential support for you and your family.

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Curated YouTube Videos for Expatriates and New Immigrants

Explore this curated playlist of YouTube videos covering essential topics for expatriates living in Singapore. Each video offers insights into various aspects of expat life, from cultural adjustment to navigating Singapore’s legal and work environment.

Youtube Video Playlist: Here’s a curated video playlist on various  Expat topics, each with a brief explanation of what it covers:

1. Culture and History of Singapore:

2. Legal System and Consumer Protection:

3. Economy and Work Life:

4. Understanding Local Culture:

5. Lee Kuan Yew:

6. Getting Around in Singapore:

7. Sights and Attractions in Singapore:

Disclaimer:

The YouTube videos listed here are not created by Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. and are provided as a guide to help you familiarise yourself with various aspects of life in Singapore. For topics such as relocation and visa processes, work culture, cultural adjustment, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), we recommend conducting further searches or consulting official resources to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Always refer to official government websites, local authorities, or expert channels for comprehensive advice on legal, cultural, or professional matters. Viewer discretion is advised.

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Essential Reads for Expats and New Citizens in Singapore

Discover the secrets to thriving in Singapore! Whether you’re starting fresh as an expatriate or settling in as a new citizen, these carefully curated books will guide you through cultural adjustment, relocation challenges, and embracing life in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. From understanding local customs to exploring hidden gems, these resources ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

1. Mastering Singapore’s Culture and Customs

  • “CultureShock! Singapore: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette” by Kelly Jackson-Nash
    Avoid common pitfalls with this ultimate guide to Singapore’s social etiquette. Perfect for expats and new residents aiming to fit in seamlessly.

  • “Living in Singapore: Sixteenth Edition Reference Guide” by the American Association of Singapore
    Your go-to manual for navigating housing, healthcare, and everyday life. This comprehensive guide is an expat’s survival kit.

2. Dive Into Singapore’s Rich History

  • “Singapore: A Biography” by Mark Ravinder Frost and Yu-Mei Balasingamchow
    Unearth the fascinating history of Singapore—from sleepy fishing village to global powerhouse. A must-read for history buffs!

  • “The Singapore Story: Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew” by Lee Kuan Yew
    Understand Singapore’s transformation through the eyes of its founding father. Inspiring and insightful for anyone curious about the nation’s journey.

3. Satisfy Your Taste Buds

  • “Makansutra Singapore 2019” by KF Seetoh
    Calling all foodies! Discover Singapore’s street food culture with this trusted guide to hawker delights.

  • “Singapore Cooking: Fabulous Recipes from Asia’s Food Capital” by Terry Tan and Christopher Tan
    Bring Singapore’s multicultural flavours to your kitchen with these authentic recipes.

4. Explore Singapore Like a Local

  • “Top 10 Singapore (DK Eyewitness Travel Guide)” by DK Eyewitness
    A quick and easy guide to the top attractions, from iconic landmarks to hidden treasures.

  • “The Rough Guide to Singapore” by Rough Guides
    Dive deeper into Singapore’s best spots for dining, shopping, and adventure.

5. Speak Like a Local

  • “Instant Singlish: A Practical Guide for Foreigners and New Residents”
    Learn Singlish, lah! This quirky guide will have you speaking Singapore’s unique language blend in no time.

  • “Malay for Everyone”
    Unlock basic Malay phrases to better connect with locals and immerse yourself in Singapore’s culture.

  • “Mandarin Chinese Phrase Book & Dictionary” by Berlitz
    Simplify communication with this essential Mandarin phrasebook for everyday situations.

6. Discover Singapore’s Vibrant Culture

  • “Singapore’s Little India: Past, Present and Future”
    Explore the heart of Singapore’s Indian community with this deep dive into Little India’s rich history.

  • “Singapore’s Chinatown: A Walking Tour” by Heidi Sarna
    Step into Chinatown’s colourful streets and uncover its fascinating past and present.

7. Embrace Singapore’s Green Side

  • “Wild Singapore” by Yong Ding Li and Geoff Davison
    Rediscover nature with this guide to Singapore’s lush wildlife and serene parks.

  • “100 Amazing Places in Singapore” by Heidi Sarna and Jerome Lim
    Perfect for weekend explorers—find hidden gems and breathtaking spots you didn’t know existed.

8. Navigate Singapore’s Education System

  • “Schooling in the City: Educational Inequality and Urban Schools” by Tracey L. Burns and Jane Phillimore
    Gain insight into Singapore’s urban schooling system and learn how inequality is addressed in education.

  • “The Singapore Education System: What Parents Need to Know” by David Lee and Michelle Ang
    A practical guide for parents navigating Singapore’s school system, from curriculum insights to choosing the right institution.

9. Decode Singapore’s Economy

  • “The Singapore Economy: An Introduction” by Gavin Peebles and Peter Wilson
    Perfect for professionals and curious minds—learn how Singapore became a global economic leader.

  • “Singapore’s Economic Development: Retrospection and Reflections”
    A thought-provoking exploration of Singapore’s economic policies and their impact.

10. Hidden Gems and Local Secrets

  • “Singapore’s Best Kept Secrets” by Marcus Lee
    Escape the tourist trail with this guide to Singapore’s underrated attractions and eateries.

  • “Expats in Singapore: What You Need to Know to Enjoy a New Life in Singapore” by The Expat Arrivals Team
    A treasure trove of tips on housing, schooling, and making the most of your time as an expat.

Disclaimer

The titles listed above are for informational purposes only and represent diverse perspectives on Singaporean culture and life. Inclusion in this list does not imply endorsement by Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte Ltd or its affiliates. Readers are encouraged to explore these resources further to determine their relevance and applicability.

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Curated Movies for Expatriates in Singapore

For a deeper understanding of culture shock, cross-cultural relationships, and the emotional complexities faced by expatriates and third-culture kids during relocation, these movies offer valuable insights. Each film highlights the unique challenges of adjusting to new environments and cultures, helping expatriates navigate their journey to settling into life in Singapore.

Here’s a curated list of movies that explore cultural adjustment issues faced by expatriates, including some films by Jack Neo, a well-known Singaporean filmmaker:

1. The Terminal (2004)

  • Director: Steven Spielberg

  • Summary: Starring Tom Hanks, this film tells the story of Viktor Navorski, an Eastern European man who becomes stranded at New York’s JFK Airport when his country undergoes a revolution, rendering his passport invalid. The movie highlights the challenges of being in a foreign land, dealing with cultural differences, and finding a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar environment.

2. Lost in Translation (2003)

  • Director: Sofia Coppola

  • Summary: This critically acclaimed film stars Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson as two Americans in Tokyo who develop a bond as they grapple with loneliness and cultural disorientation. The movie beautifully captures the sense of alienation and the struggle to connect with a culture that feels entirely different.

3. Eat Pray Love (2010)

  • Director: Ryan Murphy

  • Summary: Based on the memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, this film follows a woman’s journey of self-discovery across Italy, India, and Bali. While not exclusively about expatriates, it delves into the challenges and growth that come with immersing oneself in different cultures.

4. The Joy Luck Club (1993)

  • Director: Wayne Wang

  • Summary: Based on the novel by Amy Tan, this film explores the generational and cultural clashes between Chinese-American daughters and their immigrant mothers. The movie provides deep insights into the complexities of cultural identity and the immigrant experience.

5. Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)

  • Director: Audrey Wells

  • Summary: This romantic comedy-drama follows a recently divorced American woman who impulsively buys a villa in Tuscany and adjusts to life in Italy. The film highlights the challenges and joys of starting over in a new country.

6. Ilo Ilo (2013)

  • Director: Anthony Chen

  • Summary: Set in Singapore during the 1997 Asian financial crisis, this film tells the story of a Filipina domestic worker and her relationship with the Singaporean family she works for. The movie explores cultural differences, adaptation, and the impact of migration on individuals and families.

7. Singapore Dreaming (2006)

  • Director: Woo Yen Yen, Colin Goh

  • Summary: This film provides a look into the lives of a typical Singaporean family as they navigate the pressures of societal expectations and the desire for material success. It touches on the struggles of adapting to the fast-paced, high-pressure environment in Singapore.

8. Ah Boys to Men Series (2012-2017)

  • Director: Jack Neo

  • Summary: Although primarily a comedy about military service in Singapore, the Ah Boys to Men series by Jack Neo highlights the cultural differences and adjustments faced by young men in Singapore’s National Service. It touches on themes of camaraderie, duty, and the blending of different backgrounds.

9. I Not Stupid (2002)

  • Director: Jack Neo

  • Summary: This film, also by Jack Neo, focuses on the lives of three Singaporean students who struggle with the rigid education system and societal expectations. While it’s centered on local students, the film offers insights into the broader cultural pressures and challenges in Singapore, which expatriate families might find relatable.

10. Homecoming (2011)

  • Director: Lee Thean-Jeen, Jack Neo

  • Summary: A comedy-drama that follows several Singaporean families as they return home to celebrate Chinese New Year. The film captures the cultural significance of the holiday and the adjustments that come with returning to one’s roots, which can resonate with expatriates navigating cultural traditions.

11. The Farewell (2019)

  • Director: Lulu Wang

  • Summary: This film follows a Chinese-American woman who returns to China with her family under the guise of a fake wedding to say goodbye to their beloved matriarch, who only has a short time left to live. The movie deals with cultural differences, the immigrant experience, and the challenges of balancing traditional and modern values.

12. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

  • Director: Jon M. Chu

  • Summary: While a romantic comedy at its core, this film delves into the cultural clashes and adjustments faced by a Chinese-American woman as she meets her boyfriend’s ultra-rich family in Singapore. It highlights the challenges of fitting into a new cultural environment with different expectations and traditions.

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FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, expatriates can generally access local counselling services provided by Family Service Centres (FSCs) in Singapore. However, these services are typically designed for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents, and availability to expatriates may vary. While expatriates may not qualify for government-subsidised services, they can still access the services at full cost depending on the specific centre. It’s important to contact individual FSCs to confirm eligibility and service fees

Family Service Centres (FSCs) offer a range of services, including family counselling, financial assistance, and social support for families in need. While expatriates can access these services, priority is often given to residents with financial difficulties or those integrating into Singapore’s community. Expatriates may find better-tailored support through private counselling providers that specialise in addressing relocation stress, cross-cultural challenges, and family adjustment issues.

Expatriates who are not eligible for subsidised services at FSCs can explore private counselling services in Singapore that specialise in addressing the unique needs of expatriates. These private services often offer support for relocation stress, cross-cultural adjustments, third-culture kids, and other expatriate challenges. Many private providers also offer confidential, non-judgemental support tailored to expatriates’ experiences.

Important Numbers for Expats in Singapore

Emergency Services:

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance and Fire: 995
  • Non-Emergency Ambulance: 1777

Healthcare and Hospitals:

  • Singapore General Hospital (SGH): +65 6222 3322
  • National University Hospital (NUH): +65 6779 5555
  • Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH): +65 6256 6011
  • Changi General Hospital (CGH): +65 6788 8833
  • Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard): +65 6737 2666
  • Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Novena): +65 6933 0000
  • KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital: +65 6225 5554

Mental Health Services:

  • Institute of Mental Health (IMH): +65 6389 2000
  • Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) – 24-hour hotline: +65 1767

Disclaimer:

Please note that I do not receive any compensation from the apps or services listed above and cannot vouch for their performance or reliability. It is advisable to exercise caution and use these apps at your own discretion.

    • No I dont provide any Consulate or Embassy liason Please contact them directly on their website. Some I have retrieved are

  • Embassies and Consulates:

    1. U.S. Embassy Singapore

    2. British High Commission Singapore

    3. Australian High Commission Singapore

    4. German Embassy Singapore

    5. Embassy of Switzerland Singapore

    6. High Commission of India Singapore

      • Phone: +65 6737 6777
      • Website: hcisingapore.gov.in

    7. Embassy of the People’s Republic of China Singapore

    8. High Commission of Malaysia Singapore

    9. Embassy of Japan Singapore

    Immigration and Visa Services:

    • Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA): +65 6391 6100
    • Ministry of Manpower (MOM) – Employment Pass Services: +65 6438 5122

     

Unfortunately my counselling is limited to mental health and well being and does not cover such services. There are many such services which I am sure would be able to help you. The best of course is getting directly in touch with the authorities eg the ICA and MOM.

Utilities and Public Services:

  • SP Services (Electricity, Water, Gas): +65 1800 222 2333
  • PUB (Water Supply Issues): +65 1800 284 6600
  • National Environment Agency (NEA) – Public Cleanliness: +65 6225 5632

Transport and Getting Around:

  • Land Transport Authority (LTA): +65 1800 225 5582
  • ComfortDelGro Taxi Booking: +65 6552 1111
  • Grab (Ride-Hailing App): Use the app for services.

Important Apps for Expats in Singapore

Transport and Ride-Hailing Apps:

  1. Grab

    • Description: A versatile app offering ride-hailing, food delivery, and grocery services. Widely used across Singapore.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: grab.com/sg

  2. ComfortDelGro (CDG)

    • Description: One of Singapore’s largest taxi operators. The app allows you to book taxis easily.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: cdgtaxi.com.sg

  3. Gojek

    • Description: A ride-hailing app that provides affordable transport options, often used for ridesharing.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: gojek.com/sg

  4. TADA

    • Description: A ride-hailing app that promises zero commission for drivers, offering competitive rates for passengers.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: tada.global

Food Delivery Apps:

  1. Foodpanda

    • Description: A popular food delivery service offering a wide range of restaurant options across Singapore.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: foodpanda.sg

  2. GrabFood

    • Description: Part of the Grab app, GrabFood offers quick and reliable food delivery from a variety of local restaurants.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: grab.com/sg/food

Public Transport Apps:

  1. MyTransport.SG (LTA)

    • Description: The official app by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), providing real-time bus arrival timings, traffic updates, and parking information.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: lta.gov.sg

  2. Singapore MRT

    • Description: A simple app that provides maps, train timings, and route planning for Singapore’s MRT system.
    • Availability: iOS, Android

  3. Moovit

    • Description: A comprehensive public transport app that helps you navigate the MRT, buses, and other forms of public transit in Singapore.
    • Availability: iOS, Android
    • Website: moovitapp.com

Disclaimer:

Please note that I do not receive any compensation from the apps or services listed above and cannot vouch for their performance or reliability. It is advisable to exercise caution and use these apps at your own discretion.

This updated list provides important contact numbers for embassies, useful apps, and a range of services that can help expats manage their day-to-day lives in Singapore.

The cost of seeing a counselor in Singapore can vary depending on several factors, including the type of counseling, the counselor’s experience, and the length of the session. Here is a general range:

  • Private Practice Counselors: Fees typically range from SGD 100 to SGD 250 per session (usually 50-60 minutes). More experienced or specialized counselors may charge higher rates.

  • Government or Community Organizations: Some non-profit organizations or government-funded services may offer counseling at lower rates or even for free, especially for specific groups such as low-income individuals or students.

  • Corporate or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): If your employer offers an EAP, you might have access to counseling sessions at no cost or at a subsidized rate.

It’s a good idea to inquire directly with the counselor or organization about their fees and any potential sliding scale options based on your financial situation.

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