SINGAPORE: A heart-wrenching account from a Singaporean man reveals the emotional and financial turmoil when his father unexpectedly withdrew support for his university education.

In a candid post on Reddit’s "Ask Singapore" forum, the young man expressed his feelings of defeat and exhaustion. Initially, he had not intended to pursue higher education after completing his diploma, already grappling with the difficulties of making ends meet through a part-time job. Struggling to manage even basic expenses such as food and transportation took a toll on his mental health, which further complicated his ability to focus on future goals.

Despite these challenges, he faced pressure from his father to enroll in university. “Initially, my only option was a private university, but my father encouraged me to apply, assuring me that finances would not be a concern,” he recounted. They secured a study loan under the agreement that his father would cover costs during his studies, with the remainder to be paid by the young man upon graduation.

However, just as he was beginning to adjust to this arrangement, his father rescinded his promise, leaving the student in a precarious position. "I felt blindsided," he admitted. "I only make enough to cover my necessities, and it feels impossible to work more given my deteriorating mental state."

While acknowledging that many aren’t afforded the opportunity to pursue further studies, he confided that the weight of his situation had drained his enthusiasm. "I just feel so tired. I want to quit my job and drop out of school. I can't even enjoy my hobbies anymore."

Fortunately, the Reddit community responded with compassion and valuable advice. Many encouraged him to seek professional help for his mental health struggles. Comments included suggestions to talk with his mother about his situation, stressing the importance of sharing his feelings with someone who could potentially provide emotional and practical support.

One user suggested, "Your father may think that pushing you is beneficial, but you need to make sure your mother understands how serious this is." Others recommended visiting a general practitioner or spending time outdoors to boost mood through physical activity.

The post resonated with numerous users who shared their own stories of navigating financial pressures from family during university. One individual recalled, "I faced a similar situation when my dad withdrew support. I managed to negotiate with the bank to defer my loan payments until I graduated."

Such narratives highlight a troubling reality: many students in Singapore, and around the world, face escalating pressures not just from academic commitments, but also from financial instability rooted in familial obligations. As the conversation continues online, one thing is clear—this issue is far from isolated, and it calls for a broader discussion on mental health resources and support for students navigating these challenges.

As university costs rise and mental health awareness grows, many wonder: How can schools and families better support students in these situations?