23 & 24 Aug 2025 (Pastoral Page) YOU ARE NOT ALONE

by Asst Ps Timothy Lee

I came across a news report in July about a murder-suicide incident in Hong Kong involving a 37-year-old man who died after falling from a height. His wife and their two young children, aged 6 and 3, were later found dead in their hotel room. A 24-centimetre kitchen knife was recovered from the scene. Reports stated that the man had been renting the hotel room since mid-May while preparing to immigrate with his family. Before his death, he had shared messages on social media expressing deep emotional distress and feelings of inadequacy about providing for his loved ones.

This news report struck me because the incident occurred in the same hotel where we stayed during our June holiday. The story lingered in my mind for several days. I felt a deep sense of sadness for the family, especially for the father, who was under immense pressure due to the immigration process—a significant life transition that can be incredibly overwhelming.

According to a 2024 report by the Institute of Mental Health, Singapore, about 1 in 3 young people (30.6%) aged between 15 and 35 years in Singapore reported experiencing severe or extremely severe symptoms of depression, anxiety and/or stress. Such symptoms include persistent sadness, emptiness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities, most of the time. (https://www.imh.com.sg/Newsroom/News-Releases/Documents/NYMHS_Press%20Release_FINAL19Sep2024.pdf)

Statistics from 2022 show that, on average, more than one person a day committed suicide, with poor mental health often being a significant contributing factor. Suicide is the leading cause of death among youths (aged 10 to 29) in Singapore. (Samaritans of Singapore, ‘Highest Recorded Suicide Numbers in Singapore Since 2000,’ July 1, 2023, https://www.sos.org.sg/media/press-releases/ (accessed 27 May 2024).

The news of this tragedy and the statistics on mental health challenges in Singapore raise important questions for us as a community of faith, especially within the church. We often present a "beautified" version of our lives, sharing our "mountaintop experiences" while concealing our struggles in the "valleys." How can we respond to those who are silently hurting? Many people around us are struggling, but they keep it hidden. True community isn’t built by pretending we have it all together. It’s built in the hard moments—when we choose to be real, support one another, and walk through the valleys together.

Let us not turn away from such struggles or pain but let it stir us to compassion and action. We are called to reflect Christ's love—not just in word, but in presence. Galatians 6:2 urges us to “carry each other’s burdens,” yet this requires more than the usual “how are you doing?” conversations. It calls for a deep, intentional community—a space where we can share our struggles without fear of judgment, gossip, or spiritual platitudes.

Mental health struggles do not indicate a lack of faith. Bible heroes like Elijah, David, and even Paul experienced despair, yet God did not condemn them—He met them in their valleys. So must we. We can start by listening without judgment, praying with genuine empathy, and not being quick to provide solutions; instead, be willing to journey with the person. We are called to embody the steadfast hope we have in Christ through our presence, compassion, and care.

God also provides us with medical professionals and therapists to walk alongside us in healing and seeking help—whether pastoral or professional—is a sign of strength and wisdom, not weakness. Faith and mental health care are not at odds; they can and should work together.

If you are experiencing emotional or mental turmoil, know that you are not alone or forsaken. God’s love reaches into our darkest valleys. Take the courageous step to reach out—whether to a pastor, friend, or counsellor.

In our church, we have a Counselling Ministry. Please do reach out to them for support. They also provide therapeutic play therapy for young children and youth. For more details, please visit our website (https://www.biblechurch.sg/counselling) or email Janet Lim, staff in charge of Counselling Ministry at janet@biblechurch.sg.