Introduction: 1) Share/recap on three key areas where Health Promotion Board (HPB) leverages the digital space to promote mental well-being: a) Enhancing mental health literacy b) Improving coping ability through self-directed activities c) Upskilling individuals to support others 2) This presentation will focus specifically on the first and third area—enhancing mental health literacy and upskilling individuals to support others. 3) This presentation will focus on three key initiatives that leveraged digital channels for wider access and reach: a) MindSG, a one-stop national portal for mental health and well-being b) Peer support e-learning c) Fortnightly webinars on various mental health topics Key initiatives to enhance mental health literacy and peer support capabilities: 1) MindSG is Singapore’s national digital portal for mental health and well-being. Developed by HPB in collaboration with government agencies and mental health experts, the portal brings together curated, credible content to support both self-care and the care of others. Users can access: i) Evidence-informed articles and guides on topics like stress, managing emotions and self-care ii) Self-assessment tools to better understand one’s mental health status iii) Tips on recognising signs of emotional distress in others iv) Guidance on having supportive conversations and linking to help v) A searchable directory of mental health services 1b) To improve visibility and help-seeking, HPB uses digital marketing techniques such as Native Discovery and Search Engine Marketing to direct individuals searching for mental health content online to relevant pages on MindSG. 1c) Since its launch in November 2021, MindSG has achieved over 12 million page views from 4 million users. 1d) Sharing on key considerations when planning the content architecture for MindSG and some insights on user engagement trends. 2) HPB has been training lay persons without lived experience as peer supporters over the past few years across communities, workplaces, and schools, equipping them with the skills and confidence to provide emotional support to those around them. To build on this foundation, HPB is developing a suite of peer support e-learning modules to make training more accessible and scalable across different settings. 2a) These interactive modules use relatable, scenario-based content to equip individuals to: i) Identify when someone may be in emotional distress ii) Respond with empathy while maintaining appropriate boundaries iii) Refer others to suitable professional support services 2b) The modules are designed for everyday use across schools, workplaces, and community settings, with a flexible and self-paced format 2c) Sharing on how HPB taps on insights from regular survey with trained peer supported to inform the development of new e-learning modules a including targeted topics such as managing anger, coping with anxiety, navigating life transitions, and supporting peers in digital spaces. This ongoing regular feedback ensures that peer supporters are equipped with practical skills that align with the evolving challenges in their communities. 3) HPB also organises free fortnightly webinars featuring mental health professionals who would cover a range of mental health topics, such as managing burnout, building emotional resilience, and navigating life changes. The webinars deep-dive into various topics and offer practical coping tips. 3a) On average, about 200-600 participants attend each session. As compared to typical in-person mental wellness workshops or talks which usually draw between 20 to 30 participants; these webinars have drawn a much greater participation due to accessibility. By leveraging digital platforms, HPB has successfully expanded access to mental health education. Summary on how MindSG, peer support e-learning modules, and online webinars collectively strengthen preventive mental health efforts in Singapore. These digital initiatives aim to enhance mental health literacy, encourage early recognition, and empower individuals to support one another—contributing to a more resilient and caring society.
