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Hotspots: Tinto

Husband and wife chefs Daniel and Tamara Chávez

If you’re craving the European summer vibe, Tinto, the brainchild of Chefs Daniel and Tamara Chávez, is a new Spanish restaurant well worth saying hola to. Chef Daniel’s culinary credentials are well-known in Singapore and include Canchita, a nod to his native Peru. Now, together with his wife, they embark on Tinto, named after the Spanish term for red wine.

Showcasing regional dishes from across Spain, we had the pleasure of checking it out. Our gastronomic journey commenced with the traditional Andalucian Gazpacho ($10). Perfectly suited to Singapore’s weather, this classic soup blended tomatoes, Japanese cucumber, and olive oil, garnished with small cubes of Japanese cucumber and heirloom tomatoes. Tinto’s rendition offered a unique twist, replacing the customary sherry vinegar with raspberry vinegar.

The following appetiser was the Cangrego ($18), a Crab and Avocado Salad with Lime, Green Apples, Fine Herbs, and Sour Cream, reminiscent of the popular Ensaladilla Rusa. Chef Tamara’s version, combined sweet crab meat, creamy avocado, crunchy green apple, and salmon caviar, dressed with lime and a hint of basil. Her creation drew inspiration from Spain’s abundant coastlines, presenting a light and Mediterranean-infused dish without overwhelming richness.

We tried the iconic Gambas Al Ajillo ($28) and Pulpo A La Brasa ($32). The tasty Gambas coated in roasted garlic oil and dried chili were served on velvety potato puree and topped with crispy garlic chips. The Pulpo A La Brasa was sous-vide and grilled for a smoky scent and topped with Mojo Rojo.

Fragrant & tangy

For the main course, the Fideua Carabineros & Setas ($62 / $118) is a traditional Catalan delight using angel-hair noodles instead of bomba rice. The Fideua absorbs the richness of lobster broth infused with dried sherry wine and chestnuts. Crowned with Mediterranean carabinero prawns and grilled organic mushrooms, the dish was elevated by a decadent creamy truffle aioli, culminating in a luxurious indulgence.

Equally captivating was the De Pulpo & Chorizo ($36/$68), Tinto’s signature paella. Using saffron-flavoured Bomba rice, the dish achieved the coveted crispy socarrat at the bottom layer. Accompanied by piquillo pepper aioli, this Valencian classic was a harmonious blend of fragrant and tangy.

Left: Tinto transports you to Spain. Right: De Pulpo & Chorizo, Tinto’s signature paella

From the middle of the country came the Cochinillo (Leg – $60 / Loin $64), expertly roasted piglet with a delicately crispy skin, served alongside a velvety potato puree and brightened by an orange reduction. A refreshing touch from a petite salad balances this dish.
To conclude, we indulged in traditional Churros con Chocolate ($18). Handcrafted from choux pastry dough, the churros boasted crispy ridges and a warm, pillowy interior. Crowned with sugar and drizzled with a glossy chocolate sauce, they were perfectly complemented by Tinto’s airy vanilla pastry cream, a true finale of sweetness. In addition, Tinto’s impressive and extensive wine list offered an exceptional variety of Spanish wines beyond the well-known Rioja or Ribera del Duero, throughout the meal.

VERDICT: Chef Daniel and Chef Tamara’s menu passionately honours Spanish cuisine. Tinto succeeds in delivering an unparalleled gastronomical experience which, while not the most budget-friendly, transcends cost through taste and memories.

Tinto
 Blk 10 Dempsey Road, #01-21, 247700
 tinto.sg

Draw 1: Win a fully stocked wine fridge

 

Enter the Global Financial Consultants prize draw for a chance to win a premium Wine Cooler with an array of exquisite wines and Champagnes. This sleek cooler guarantees perfect chilling for your wines, offering a delightful tasting experience. Elevate your wine enjoyment today!

Founded by Bruce Barron and Ian McMahon in 1997, Global Financial Consultants originated in Sydney, Australia, and relocated to Singapore in 2003. Their mission for the past two decades has remained constant: safeguarding your financial security and providing trustworthy and comprehensive solutions for the future thanks to a diverse and knowledgeable team of consultants. Regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), they provide reliable financial planning advice for Singaporeans, expatriates, and corporations.

Draw 2: Win “From Beyond the Rave” artwork by artist Hayden Kays

Enter the Art Works Advisory prize draw and you could be taking home ‘From Beyond the Rave’ by Hayden Kays to adorn your walls. The provocative London-based artist is well known for his witty commentary on contemporary culture, and fans include celebrities like Harry Styles and Jude Law.

About Art Works Advisory
The Art Works Group is a leading art advisory group in Asia committed to delivering education, transparency, and market insight to assist art collectors, investors, and enthusiasts in the world of fine art. They provide comprehensive advice and guidance on all aspects of art investment and collecting.

Australian International School marks 30th anniversary

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The Australian International School (AIS) recently rolled out the red carpet for its Foundation Day celebrations, marking a magnificent milestone – 30 years of academic excellence. The grand finale of this year-long journey was the glitzy 30th Anniversary Ball held at the Shangri-La Singapore.

A Year-Long Extravaganza

Throughout the year, the school organised a sequence of events designed to bring children and parents together to celebrate. Starting with “Picnic Under the Stars,” followed by the delightful “AISPA Fish & Chips” gathering. These events laid the foundation for an unforgettable journey that culminated in the much-anticipated “Global Festival,” where students celebrated their diverse cultures.

Foundation Day Assemblies: Bridging Past and Future

In term 3 each of the sub-schools held Assemblies, which were a tribute to the school’s storied past and a glimpse into a promising future. These assemblies not only celebrated AIS’s rich history but also looked ahead with great optimism to the next remarkable 30 years.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

On August 31st AIS held an Alumni event that allowed over 20 attendees, including current and past students, teachers, and parents, to tour the school. It was a moment of reflection and revelation as they witnessed the transformative changes AIS has undergone over the years, with some buildings not even in existence during their time at the School.

Students Illuminate the Path Ahead

During the celebrations, Secondary school students shared their visions for the next 30 years, offering inspiring glimpses of what lies ahead.

The 30th Anniversary Ball

The peak of AIS’s 30th-anniversary celebrations was undoubtedly the opulent 30th Anniversary Ball hosted at the Shangri-La Singapore.

The night unfolded with a thrilling line-up of events that extended well into the early hours. The festivities began with a captivating performance by the School band, setting a melodious tone for the evening. The stage then came alive with the band, Ruckus, who delivered an energetic performance that had everyone on their feet. DJ Shigeki kept the energy levels soaring throughout the night with an electrifying playlist.

Distinguished Guests and Community Spirit

The event attracted 310 distinguished guests, including notable dignitaries, former Heads of School, and esteemed partners. Their presence added an air of sophistication to the soirée.

The night was a seamless fusion of joy, nostalgia, and a profound sense of community as alumni, parents, and AIS colleagues celebrated the school’s remarkable journey and unwavering commitment to shaping a promising future.

 30 Lucky Door Prizes

In true birthday fashion, AIS treated its guests to a fantastic array of 30 lucky door prizes during the Ball. From grand getaways to exquisite treasures, the prizes added an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. The Grand Prize, a 5D4N full-board stay at the Club Med Kani resort in the Maldives, valued at over $12,000, stole the show.

A Charitable Touch

Adding a philanthropic dimension to the celebrations, a Charity Auction raised an impressive $7,603 for the Children’s Aid Society, underscoring the AIS community’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond the classroom.

Anticipating the Future

As AIS marks three decades of excellence, it looks ahead to a future filled with promise, guided by a legacy of quality education and a steadfast commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

Karrie Dietz, Head of School, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I would like to take this opportunity once again to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students, parents, teachers, alumni, and community partners. The collective contributions of each one of you have been instrumental in our achievements.”

 

For more information about AIS, please click here or call 6517 0247. See the school in action in this video. 

 

 

How Phnom Penh is raising the bar for travel

Jo at the Central Market

My first and only visit to Phnom Penh was twelve years ago. I was a determined solo traveller keen to push myself out of my comfort zone, and Cambodia’s capital city certainly delivered.

Since that trip, I’ve avoided wearing all-in-one-jumpsuits on 13 hour bus journeys; always book reputable accommodation so as not to find myself stranded at midnight at an unknown location; and urge everyone to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields (sites associated with the Khmer Rouge atrocities of the 1970s), so viscerally confronting as
they are.

Given this slightly traumatic introduction to Phnom Penh, I felt excited and little nervous about returning. I was scarred by memories of stripping off to pee in roadside bushes, yet intrigued by stories of a stronger beating heart emanating from the city’s emerging scene of dynamic change. 

Temples & tipples

When you live in Singapore, quick getaways tend to include Bali, Thailand and Cambodia’s other famous bolthole, Siem Reap. However, we’ve been wildly overlooking Phnom Penh where an influx of creativity, fresh ideas and increased confidence is now putting it firmly on the map. Less than two hours from Changi airport, it’s a no-brainer for an easy escape offering a vibrant new look for tourists and expats. 

 The Royal Palace remains a must-see with its yellow and red turreted buildings and silver pagoda. Wat Phnom temple, the National Museum of Cambodia and the Independence Monument should also be on your radar. For those with time to venture out, a trip to Phare The Cambodian Circus, where the performers hail from underprivileged backgrounds and use Cambodia’s history for their storytelling, is entertaining and awe-inspiring.

The city’s Central Market, resplendent in art-deco design and bulging with food, apparel and sundries, transports you straight into the community. Meanwhile, neighbourhood bakeries heave with pastries to rival those in France, and charming coffee shops still emulate architectural design from a bygone era. 

Right: Rosewood’s Whisky Library

In contrast, Phnom Penh’s vivacious bar scene is developing at such a pace that we recommend eschewing your local kakfei for the new innovative cocktails, mocktails and more being shaken and stirred at every turn. From chic rooftops to speakeasy hideouts and premier Cambodian distilleries, cosmopolitan drinks menus are reflecting the city’s resilience and youthful energy – and they’re just waiting for you to sample them.

Sora Sky Bar

From left: On top of the world at Sora Sky Bar – literally!. God Of The Seas

It’s impossible to miss Rosewood Phnom Penh, the big-hitter skyscraper hotel in the city centre. Perched at the top, 39 storeys up, is Sora Sky Bar (Sora means “sky” in Japanese). It’s not only a glitzy go-to serving aerial views and the highest seats in town, but this popular spot has also just unveiled a fabulous new drinks menu, The Book of Yokai.

Leading the pack when it comes to the capital’s burgeoning drinks culture, Sora’s 12 new cocktails come with one aim in life: to showcase the complexity of quintessential Cambodian ingredients (think rice, palm sugar, and the world’s most aromatic pepper, Kampot pepper), while paying homage to local life and Japanese folklore. To reach this goal, Sora enlisted the help of Singapore’s award-winning beverage experts Proof & Company, whose projects include 28 Hong Kong Street, Manhattan Bar, Atlas, and Raffles Hotel.  

The Book of Yokai is divided into four chapters, each one offering three beautifully-crafted drinks (including one non-alcoholic option), influenced by Japanese mythology, celestial stories and the supernatural. ‘The God of the Seas’ combines brown rice-infused London Dry Gin with dry vermouth, rice vinegar and a funky sea smoke spray, providing a twist on the classic Dry Martini. ‘The Crow Collins’ sees Plantation rum infused with banana flower, resulting in a refreshing (and bang-on-trend Barbie-esque) pink number. 

On that note, if it’s spicy Kenergy you’re looking for, Sora 75 is their take on the classic French 75 cocktail combining passionfruit sherbet, red Kampot pepper aromatics, sparkling sake and Kampot pepper sugar dust to finish. The pepper lends a zesty kick to this vibrant concoction that transforms into an aperitif-style option. Every drink offers a glimpse into tales of yore and honestly, you don’t know whether to sip or just stare at them when they arrive gorgeously garnished and in a rainbow of punchy colours.

Naturally, Sora Sky Bar is the place to be at sunset so you can drink to the dance of Phnom Penh’s shimmering night lights, but bagging a seat at the bar inside can be equally as thrilling as you kick back and chat with the staff. 

Still thirsty? The stylish Whisky Library on floor 37 of the hotel houses the widest selection of single malt whiskeys in the country, including some real rarities. Keeping up with the revamped menu at Sora, the offerings here have also been reworked with six new cocktails paying tribute to the swords of Japanese samurai warriors. We recommend ‘The Imperial’ which comes with dry figs infused in Scotch whisky, Campari, Japanese umeshu, and a splash of ponzu. 

Of course, it would be rude not to stay at Rosewood Phnom Penh after they’ve kept you so happily hydrated. The corner Mekong Suites offer panoramic views with electronic blinds that slide up and down depending on your penchant for sunlight, huge bathtubs, the comfiest beds, and small lounge area. 

A morning dip in the 22-metre spa pool will be just what’s needed to wake you up for another day of culture and cocktails ahead. 

Rosewood Phnom Penh, Vattanac Capital Mall, Monivong Boulevard, 66, Phnom Penh 12021, Cambodia

 rosewoodhotels.com

CAMBODIAN CRAWLIN’

Essentials for your bar-hopping travel itinerary

Odin Bar
What looks like a locked garage door hidden behind some unruly shrubbery, is actually a delightful drinking den. Odin Bar comes with a focus on expertly crafted cocktails, craft beers and premium wines alongside sultry lighting, wall-to-ceiling bottles and a twist of the mystical. Great for a nightcap.   instagram.com/barodincambodia 

 

Seekers Spirits
Long-term Cambodian expats Tania and Marco used their background in F&B to bring local ingredients to the forefront through bold and beautiful gins. Their new spirit house, located in a former textile factory, offers the first garden-to-glass distillery and tasting room in Phnom Penh. Guests are invited to see the distillery in action, join workshops, attend a super club or occasional all-night rave, or simply chill out in the garden which showcases over 70 native flora from the region. It’s no surprise that Oz Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid Seekers Spirits a visit earlier this year. We wonder if he liked their signature Mekong Dry Gin, big on spice notes of cinnamon, coconut and vanilla, as much as we did?  seekersspirits.com

Mawsim
Climb the stairs of this dilapidated building to the gem that is Mawsim, a hidden speakeasy with a decidedly Japanese feel. Dimly lit, with large tables for groups of friends, it offers gin-based cocktails and distills its namesake range of micro-gins on the premises. It just picked up a gold trophy at World Gin Awards 2023 so you know something good’s going on. facebook.com/mawsimkh

 

Samai Distillery
Samai, the Khmer word for modern, is the perfect moniker for this, Cambodia’s first and only premium rum distillery and bar offering four stellar options. White Rum comes smooth and expressive, Gold Rum with a dash of organic honey, PX Rum Liqueur blends rum and refined Pedro Ximenez sweet wine, and Kampot Pepper Rum brings together fine Cambodian molasses and an exotic spiciness which tastes like Christmas-in-a-cup. Each rum is handcrafted onsite and stocked in bars across the city, but we think the best place to try it is on the premises – a cooler-than-cool warehouse with NYC vibes. On Thursday nights, doors are open to a hip crowd of expats, locals, artists and (from now on!) savvy ANZA readers. samaidistillery.com

New Zealand High Commission: Many happy returns!

Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong (third left) meeting Air New Zealand

Singapore Trade Minister in Aotearoa New Zealand

At the 7th Commission Meeting of the CPTPP

Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong, travelled to Aotearoa New Zealand in July. While there, Minister Gan attended the 7th Commission Meeting of the CPTPP, two highlights of which included the United Kingdom joining the CPTPP and the release of the Tāmaki Makaurau Joint Declaration on Inclusive and Sustainable Trade. He also met with Air New Zealand, where he learnt more about NZ and SG’s sustainable aviation cooperation; visited Ara Ake, an organisation focused on bringing low-emissions energy technology to NZ; and met with other innovative start-up companies like Emrod Energy, Vertus Energy and Energy Bank.

New team member alert!

Keith, already at home in the tropics

Deputy High Commissioner, Keith Conway
“It’s a privilege to be working in Singapore at the New Zealand High Commission. I was previously posted in Hanoi, Vietnam where I had the good fortune to meet my wife – a Singaporean – so I consider this part of the world very much a second home. Since arriving we’ve been warmly welcomed by Aussies and Kiwis and look forward to getting involved in the vibrant community here. During weekends you’ll find me exploring parks and heritage trails with our Labrador Retriever Alfie, who is still enjoying the novelty of surprise encounters with otters and the occasional monitor lizard. Ka kite!”

 

New Zealand Chamber’s 40th birthday

This year marks the 40th birthday of the New Zealand Chamber of Commerce, and our colleagues have been working hard to make it a year filled with celebration. To kick off festivities, the Chamber hosted an 80s Trivia Night in June. It was packed with creative outfits, great food and company, and lots of (friendly) competition between teams! The Chamber will also be hosting a 40th Birthday Gala Event on 18 November 2023. Keep an eye out for tickets to the party on the Chamber website at nzchamber.org.sg

Australian High Commission: What’s new in the Australia-Singapore relationship?

Australia’s Prime Minister Antony Albanese with Singapore’s Acting Prime Minister Lawrence Wong

In June, Australian High Commission were delighted to welcome Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his first visit to Singapore since taking office. He joined Singapore’s Acting Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for the Annual Leaders’ Meeting to celebrate the strong Australia-Singapore bilateral friendship and was honoured to make the keynote speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue.

In a joint statement, Prime Minister Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Wong highlighted the ‘robust and multifaceted’ relationship, which has been going strong for 58 years. As our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership approaches the ten year mark, the meeting was an opportunity to talk about both countries’ shared ambition for the future of the relationship.

Climate transition

Innovative cooperation in the green economy was high on the agenda. Both ministers spoke of the progress made under the Singapore-Australia Green Economy Agreement launched in 2022, and announced three new initiatives under it: a joint $20 million Go-Green Co-Innovation Programme to drive co-innovation between Singaporean and Australian SMEs to develop green products and services; a Green and Digital Shipping Corridor to help decarbonise and digitalise the port and shipping industry; and a $5 million Convergence Asia Climate Solutions Design Grant to support innovative blended finance solutions for climate transition and resilience in Asia. 

The finalisation of the guiding principles and work plan for a bilateral ‘Food Pact’, aimed at boosting cooperation on food security and increasing trade in food products, was also announced. This includes progress on long-term commercial partnerships for importing chilled chicken from Australia to Singapore (all the better for chicken rice!). Looking forward, they agreed that Singapore and Australia should explore ways to expand collaboration on energy security and clean energy development. 

Peace & security

Prime Minister Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Wong also reaffirmed Australia and Singapore’s commitment to working together to promote peace in the Indo-Pacific region. This cuts across many aspects, from strong support for international law and unimpeded trade, to the longstanding defence and security cooperation between the two countries. Both ministers underscored their commitment to the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) which has served as a constructive platform for defence cooperation in the region for more than 50 years.

They also exchanged views on regional and global strategic issues. In his keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue following the Leaders’ Meeting, Prime Minister Albanese emphasised that “preserving peace and security is not a task any one of us can shoulder alone … peace is not a gift, and it’s never a given.”  

Both ministers welcomed the strong people-to-people ties that sit at the heart of the bilateral relationship. In particular, they acknowledged growing cooperation on arts and culture.

So, a lot to celebrate from the last twelve months and high ambition for the year ahead!  

Pictures by: Ministry of Communications and Information

Navigating hospital room rates for expats in Singapore

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Seeking healthcare in Singapore’s world-class system is a priority for many, but understanding hospital room rates is equally important. Unfamiliarity with the local system can lead to overpaying for services.

Pacific Prime CXA Singapore empower expat patients with comprehensive knowledge about hospital room rates in Singapore, helping them make informed healthcare and financial choices.

Factors Impacting Hospital Room Pricing

Location, room type, availability, medical specialisation, and the quality of services and amenities offered are some of the diverse factors influencing room pricing in Singapore’s hospitals.

  • Location: Hospitals in prime areas typically charge more than those in suburban areas.
  • Room type: Private rooms with luxury amenities are pricier than standard rooms.
  • Availability: Room rates fluctuate with demand, surging during peak periods.
  • Medical specialisation: Specialised hospitals may charge more than general hospitals.
  • Services and amenities: Quality of care, patient comfort, and services offered influence room rates.

Choosing the Right Room Type

Your choice of room type significantly affects treatment costs, with private and standard rooms offered at different rates. Consider factors such as hospitalisation duration and medical needs. Private rooms are preferred for complex cases by some, with more space and better care.

To give you an idea of hospital room rates for expats in Singapore, let’s take a brief look at some of Singapore’s flagship hospitals.

Singapore General Hospital (SGH)  

  • Comprehensive healthcare services
  • State-of-the-art technology
  • Specialised centres
  • Room rates: SGD $261.36 to $540 per day

Gleneagles Hospital Singapore (GHS) 

  • Exceptional medical services
  • Top-notch amenities
  • Room rates: SGD $277 to $768 per day

Mount Elizabeth Hospital Singapore (MEHS)

  • Inclusive medical care
  • Advanced technology
  • Room rates: SGD $295 to $790 per day

Raffles Hospital Singapore (RHS)

  • High-quality medical care
  • Distinctive facilities and services (e.g. comprehensive health screening program)
  • Room rates: SGD $368 to $778 per day

Other major hospitals in Singapore worth mentioning, along with their respective daily room rates, include:

  • The National University Hospital (NUH): Room rates: SGD $41 to $540
  • Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH): Room rates: SGD $44 to $462
  • Mount Alvernia Hospital (MAH): Room rates: SGD $160 to $575

Consider the aforementioned factors such as location, quality of care, and insurance coverage when choosing a hospital room in Singapore to manage medical costs effectively whilst ensuring access to quality care. Contact Pacific Prime CXA for impartial insurance advice or a free plan comparison today!

 

 

 

Plastic surgery considerations & advice

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Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a big decision. There are many factors to take on board when considering a procedure, and in a society where plastic surgery is increasingly popular, finding the right plastic surgeon who not only has a reliable reputation, but also understands your needs and expectations, is key.

Indeed, as the modern world evolves, so too do the options available for plastic surgery. No-one knows this more than Dr Marco Faria Correa, a Singapore-based plastic surgeon with over 35 years of experience, who reveals that he’s been seeing “an increase in male patients, post-weight loss patients, and women looking for ‘mummy makeover procedures’ such as a tummy tuck with liposuction and breast augmentations, or liposuction with BBL and female genital rejuvenation (labiaplasty).”

Share knowledge

From breasts and tums, to lifts and bums, possibilities for surgery are seemingly endless, as are the number of plastic surgeons here on the red dot. When Dr Marco first came to Singapore from Brazil in 1996, it was initially to share his knowledge. Back then, his globally approved research and redesign of the mini tummy tuck was causing waves in the industry, especially as he developed his own technique without skin removal and with minimal scarring, using internationally patented instruments which he also designed himself.

With such scientific credentials, he was welcomed back to the red dot by the Singapore Association of Plastic Surgery to present his techniques in ‘Refinements in Liposculpture with a Patient in Standing Position’ as well as updates on ‘Endoscopic Plastic Surgery’.

Already attracting overseas patients to Singapore for surgery, Dr Marco made a base on the island to entice more international clients. Building on his qualifications, he obtained his conditional Certificate of Medical Registration from the Singapore Medical Council in 2000; Certificate of Specialist Registration in Plastic Surgery and Certificate of Specialist Accreditation from the Ministry of Health, Singapore, in 2002; and achieved his full registration with the Singapore Medical Council in 2005. With a wealth of expertise under his belt, he opened his own private clinic.

Continued research

Alongside his inpatient work, Dr Marco sustains his research and development within the area of minimally invasive surgery. In 2013, he delved into the use of robotics for plastic surgery for the Repair of Rectus Diastasis (core muscle). Once again, he re-designed instruments for robotic procedures and further refined his minimally invasive surgery surgical technique.

He continues to run international workshops for surgeons and conduct surgical demonstrations, and he has won several international awards for his pioneering work in endoscopic abdominoplasty. He is also well known for his facelift, different facial procedures, and breast and body surgeries such as body liposculpture and the ‘Brazilian Butt Lift’ (BBL).

Any surgery has risks and the potential for complications. Plastic surgery should only be carried out by a qualified and experienced professional, and patients should never compromise on safety and quality. Find a list of qualified plastic surgeons in Singapore at saps.org.sg/accreditation.

Dr Marco Faria Correa Plastic Surgery Pte Ltd
 Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Unit 10-26, 38 Irrawaddy Road, 329563
 Thomson Surgical Centre, #03-01 Thomson Medical Centre, 339 Thomson Road, 307677
 6464 8075     admin@drmarco.com   www.drmarco.com

ANZA does not guarantee, warrant, or endorse any product or service advertised in this publication, nor do they guarantee any claim made by the manufacturer of such product or service.

Anxiety in teenagers: Hidden signs

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In Singapore’s fast-paced and competitive world, associated with the Covid pandemic and its consequences, anxiety has become a prevalent mental health concern among children and teenagers. Identifying subtle signs of anxiety that often go unnoticed is important. Understanding and recognising these hidden signs as soon as possible can pave the way for early intervention and support, fostering healthier emotional well-being in the young population.

Physical Complaints

Frequent unexplained physical complaints like headaches and stomach-aches may signal underlying anxiety. The resulting stress and tension can lead to severe discomfort, prompting visits to GPs and emergency services, where medical issues are ruled out. These physical pains often mask hidden psychological triggers and problems.

Changes in Sleep Patterns

Sleep disturbances are common signs of anxiety in children and teenagers. They may have trouble falling asleep, experience restless nights, or wake up frequently. Sometimes, this will be combined with nightmares and the need to go to the parent’s bed. On the other hand, some children may oversleep to escape their anxious thoughts and feel very tired after a day of experiencing many negative thoughts. These shifts in sleep patterns can negatively impact their overall well-being, leading to fatigue and difficulty concentrating during the day.

Avoidance and Withdrawal

Children and teenagers grappling with anxiety often avoid situations that trigger fear or discomfort. They may withdraw from social interactions and school activities or even refuse to attend school. Avoidance and withdrawal can exacerbate anxiety and hinder the children’s social and academic development.

Perfectionism and Overachievement

Often, children and teenagers with a lot of ambition and determination can also have excessive perfectionism and overachievement traits, which can be a sign of hidden anxiety. Some children and teenagers may feel pressure to excel in every aspect of their lives to cope with their underlying fears. It is important to help them balance encouraging success and instilling a sense of self-worth beyond academic or extracurricular achievements.

Irritability & Emotional Outbursts

Anxiety can manifest as heightened irritability and emotional outbursts in children and teenagers. The constant internal turmoil they experience can make them more reactive to external triggers, resulting in angry or tearful outbursts. These emotional fluctuations can confuse the young individual and those around them, making it essential to address the root cause. These can be mistaken as being behavioural difficulties.

Hypersensitivity to Criticism

Anxious children and teenagers may have an increased sensitivity to criticism or perceived negative feedback because their self-esteem might be affected. They may take constructive comments personally and be overly self-critical. This hypersensitivity can further fuel their anxiety, impacting their self-esteem and confidence.

Excessive Worrying

Excessive worrying, which can lead to panic attacks, is particularly common among teenagers. These panic attacks entail intense episodes of overwhelming fear and physical discomfort, including rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling, and dizziness. Prompt recognition and addressing of these attacks are crucial, as they can be easily mistaken for signs of a physical ailment, compounding anxiety for both the child and their parents.

By incorporating Psychology services as part of our GP practice, we aim to provide comprehensive and holistic healthcare to our patients. Mental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, and offering specialised psychological services in conjunction with medical care ensures early identification and intervention for emotional concerns.

Recognising the hidden signs of anxiety in children and teenagers is crucial for early detection and intervention. For more information – https://www.imc-healthcare.com/psychology-services/

Article by – Emmanuelle Mollet O’Grady

Emmanuelle Mollet O’Grady is a fully qualified French-trained Clinical Psychologist with 20 years of clinical experience and the benefit of helping many children and families throughout her career in the USA, France, Ireland and Singapore.

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