Mental health is just as important physical health – even in times of a global health emergency. Inspired to also encourage the mental health workers who seem to have less recognition during this virus, our #SGStrong grantee, Yong Kwon Seng, has decided to spread some cheer to them.
“Although nursing homes staff are not fighting COVID-19 directly but many of them have sacrificed their leave plans to be on standby as the elderly are considered to be a vulnerable group. Many of them can’t return to their hometowns because of COVID-19. Instead of feeling down they channelled their energy to cheer the residents up by engaging them in various recreational activities. This is on top of their own nursing duties.“
Thus, he reached out to all special needs schools to gathered their youths. The received a booming response from institutions such as Asian Women Welfare Association (AWWA) and Metta School. Using the creative talent of the youths, they designed appreciation cards for 600 healthcare workers in the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) as well as nurses in nursing homes. Moreover, Kwon Seng and his team have also packed 600 care packs for these healthcare workers as a reminder that they also need to look after themselves.
“Youths with special needs are talented in their own ways. This is evident in their creative and artistic thank you cards. This is a good learning opportunity for them to learn how resilient the healthcare sector is in battling COVID-19.“
We hope that Kwon Seng’s project of inclusivity across minority groups will motivate you to be more accepting and encouraging, because unity is of utmost importance in times like these. Together, we are stronger than COVID-19.