He now knows mental illness can happen to anybody and thinks people should not have the “false belief that it won’t happen to you or a loved one”.

“This whole caregiving journey will also change you as a person … Sometimes I’m so thankful for COVID-19, thankful for my daughter’s illness, that all these things happened,” he added.

“Otherwise, I’d never have become a better person, I’d never have understood myself … My daughter and I are now best friends.”

This article by CNA Insider was done in partnership with Temasek Foundation and the Institute of Mental Health. Read Part 1 on how more youths are seeking help with mental health, but finding it isn’t always easy.

Where to get help:

Samaritans of Singapore 24-hour Hotline: 1-767

Institute of Mental Health Helpline: 6389 2222

Community Health Assessment Team (CHAT): www.chat.mentalhealth.sg/

Singapore Association of Mental Health Helpline: 1800 283 7019

SAMH SAY-IT:  9179 4087 / 9179 4085 or samhsayit [at] samhealth.org.sg

Club HEAL: 6899 3463

TOUCHLINE: 1800-377-2252 or @doyoumindsg

Mindline: www.mindline.sg

Other mental health mobile apps: CARA Unmask, Safe Space, Intellect, MindFi, Myloh

You can also find a list of international helplines here. If someone you know is at immediate risk, call 24-hour emergency medical services.