Singapore Mental Health Film Festival 2021 hopes to transform conversations into actions
The Festival will feature various films, workshops, and panel discussions both online and on-site.
Singapore’s move to Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) in response to the rising number of COVID-19 community cases have no doubt dampened the spirits of many.
With the fear of ours and our loved one’s physical health, combined with the mundane thought of having to be cooped up at home again; these factors could all take a toll on our mental health too.
While there might not be a ‘cure’ or guaranteed way to find happiness and peace, seeking help and opening a safe space for people to share their stories could provide comfort and understanding.
That is the aim of the Singapore Mental Health Film Festival (SMHFF). Through a series of films, panel discussions and workshops, the festival aims to provide a platform to educate people more on prevalent mental health issues.
“We hope that SMHFF 2021 will encourage audiences to be aware of the importance of their own mental wellbeing. The conversations from the festival will also provide the tools and information necessary for participants to offer appropriate mental health support to their community,” said Cheryl Tan, Executive Director of SMHFF.
Highlighting topics ranging from childhood trauma to dementia, SMHFF 2021 will feature films and panel conversations about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our mental health.
Screening both online and on-site at National Gallery Singapore from May 22 to May 30, the Festival will show nine feature films, nine short films, nine panel conversations, and eight workshops.
Ms Tan said: “SMHFF 2021 is a hybrid event which allows viewers from home to participate in the conversations. Being cooped up at home could be challenging, and it’s important to reach out for support, whether from family, friends or professionals.
“Hopefully, the Festival will inspire individuals to be self-aware, leading towards mental and emotional resilience.”
The opening night for SMHFF 2021, hosted by Hossan Leong, will be livestreamed on their Facebook page on Monday (May 17) at 7.30pm.
Book your tickets and find out more here.
For more mental well-being resources, click here.
