Story perspectives

Singapore's Fertility Crisis: Young Parents Fear Mental Health

3/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Joey Lau, a 34-year-old market researcher in Singapore, says she will not have children because mental health pressures from social media and climate change create significant risks.
Her stance reflects a broader trend in Singapore, where the fertility rate fell to a record low of 0.87 in 2025.
Despite government efforts to boost family growth, concerns about career impacts, opportunity costs, and parenting culture influence young people's choices.

1 of 1

Story summary

Joey Lau, a 34-year-old market researcher in Singapore, says she will not have children because mental health pressures from social media and climate change create significant risks.
Her stance reflects a broader trend in Singapore, where the fertility rate fell to a record low of 0.87 in 2025.
Despite government efforts to boost family growth, concerns about career impacts, opportunity costs, and parenting culture influence young people's choices.