API Care and Counselling, the community outreach arm of the Asian Pastoral Institute (API), is happy to organise this workshop to help you understand more about depression and how to cope with it.
Are there moments in your life when you feel down and do not know how to get by? Do you have a loved one or a friend who is struggling with low mood and you are unsure how to help him or her? According to the Singapore Mental Health Study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health Study in 2016, depression was the most common mental disorders affecting 6.3% of the adult population in Singapore. This means that one in 16 people in Singapore would experience depression at some point in their lifetime. In recent times, it is reported that more people are dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts amid the Covid-19 pandemic (The Straits Times, 16 Mar 2021). In the same article, mental health professionals shared that they have been attending to more mental health cases over the past year. The pain experienced by depressed individuals is real. The mental anguish can be more difficult to bear than physical pain. Those who are depressed need the support and understanding of their family members, friends and the community. As we and our loved ones may experience depressed mood at one point or another, it is important that we know more about depression and how to cope with it during such episodes.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS SHOULD EXPECT TO LEARN
- To understand causes and risk factors of depression
- To be aware of various treatments that may reduce depression
- To learn strategies in coping with depression and to help others who are experiencing low mood
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
- Anyone who is experiencing depressed mood or knows someone who does
- Anyone who wants to understand the signs and symptoms, and strategies in managing depression
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr LOKE KENG CHOONG, MA and PhD in Applied Psychology
Keng Choong currently works as a practising principal psychologist in a government organisation, having nearly 30 years of counselling experience in various settings, including social service and healthcare sectors. As a psychologist, he is passionate about helping people to manage their emotional issues and enhance their psychological well-being. He works collaboratively with clients using a wide repertoire of evidence-based therapy skills and techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy, Motivational Interviewing as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Keng Choong is a registered clinical supervisor with both Singapore Association of Counselling and Singapore Psychological Society. Keng Choong’s extensive training includes a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology and a PhD in Applied Psychology at Nanyang Technological University. His professional education is complemented with prior theological training for pastoral work when he completed a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies at Singapore Bible College, and a Master of Divinity at East Asia School of Theology.
REGISTRATION
CLOSING DATE FOR REGISTRATION: 30 September 2021
NOTE:
- Your place in the workshop will only be secured when payment is received.
- Payment of $30 per person can be made through PayNow with the following details:
- UEN: 201512004RACC (Asian Pastoral Institute)
- Reference Code: <Payer’s Name> CWD
- Send the screenshot of successful payment to care_counselling@api.edu.sg
- Payment needs to be received at least 7 working days before the workshop.
- Group discount is available for charitable organisations.
- Please contact the organiser for more enquiries.