Acclimatising to a new country, home and school can be a challenging experience for teenagers. Here, TAN HUI HUI, a clinical psychologist from Raffles Medical Group, shares her tips for ensuring a smooth move as well as advice on therapy and counselling for teenagers in Singapore
How can parents address the feelings of a teenager who is reluctant about a move?
It can be challenging for teenagers to move because they likely already have strong connections with friends at home. At this transitional stage of life, they often prioritise acceptance in their peer group over acceptance in their family. Parents can discuss plans for staying in touch using technology to ease their fears of losing their friends. If possible, plan a visit back home or have their close friends come for a visit.
It’s essential to facilitate open communication by including teenagers in the conversation during the early stages of moving. Listen and respond to their queries so they feel some control over the situation. Be open to both positive and negative reactions and consider alternative options when they raise legitimate concerns.
What are some unique aspects of school culture in Singapore that might be unfamiliar to expat teenagers?
If you ask teenagers who have lived here for a while, they will probably tell you that Singapore has a culture of achievement. There is a greater focus on academic performance in both public and international schools, so teenagers may need time to adjust to the academic rigour.
What are some strategies that young expats can use to make new friends in a new school and community?
Moving to a new school and community can be hard, but there are several strategies that can help in making new friends:
Get involved: Join clubs, sports teams or extracurricular activities that interest you. This is a great way to meet people who share similar interests and passions. Understand cultural differences: Respect and show interest in the local culture and customs. This demonstrates openness and willingness to integrate into the community.
Offer support: If you notice someone struggling or needing assistance, offer your help. This can be a great way to start a conversation and build friendships.
Be patient: Making friends takes time, so be patient and give yourself opportunities to build connections gradually.
Stay positive: Moving to a new school can be intimidating, but maintaining a positive attitude can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for you and those around you.
How can parents differentiate between normal adjustment challenges and more serious issues that require therapy or counselling for teenagers in Singapore?
Identifying whether a teenager is struggling to acclimatise to a new environment involves recognising certain indicators and understanding the context of their behaviour. Here are some signs that may suggest they are having difficulty adjusting:
Duration and persistence: It’s normal for them to experience some adjustment challenges initially. However, if symptoms persist for several weeks or months without improvement, it may indicate a more serious issue.
Impact on functioning: Consider whether the difficulties are significantly affecting the teenager’s daily life, relationships, academic performance, or overall wellbeing.
Communication and expression: Encourage open communication with your teen. If they express feelings of loneliness, anxiety or difficulty adjusting, take these concerns seriously.
Social interaction: Observe how they interact with peers. Difficulty making friends initially is common, but ongoing social isolation may indicate deeper issues. If you notice concerning signs or your teenager expresses distress, consider professional therapy and counselling for teenagers.
For more information, visit rafflesmedicalgroup.com to make an appointment and find out more about therapy and counselling for teenagers in Singapore.
This article first appeared in the August 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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