Inside the lives of Singapore’s young hikikomori, who withdraw from school, family, the world
A new documentary series titled 'Shutdown' explores the lives of young 'hikikomori' in Singapore who have withdrawn from society due to extreme depression and anxiety. The series follows their difficult journeys toward reconnecting with their families and the outside world.
Why it matters
The series sheds light on the growing global phenomenon of social withdrawal among youth, highlighting the intersection of mental health and societal pressures.
Behind closed doors are young people who are not lazy or defiant but afraid. The series, Shutdown, follows Singapore’s hidden youth as they try to reconnect with school, family and society.
Danzel Panniachelvam, pictured with his mother, is one of four youths featuring in Shutdown, a series produced over the course of eight months by The Moving Visuals Co. (Images: The Moving Visuals Co)
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