It is not difficult to see that Singapore’s current mental healthcare infrastructure may not be fully equipped to meet the surge in demand for services, says psychiatrist Dr Jared Ng.
has unveiled a paradox, casting a spotlight on the state of mental health in Singapore. On one hand, there is a heartening increase in the willingness of individuals to seek professional help for mental health issues. On the other, the prevalence of poor mental health increased
These waiting times are not just an inconvenience; they have a direct and significant impact on the emotional well-being of individuals who are already in a vulnerable state. But one pressing concern is the potential for patients to be pushed towards higher tiers of care, particularly if community and primary care providers lack the necessary experience, capabilities or confidence to manage mental health issues. This could result in an initial overburdening of specialised services, leading to longer waiting times and potentially reduced quality of care.
Though it was not explicitly covered in the National Strategy, supervision must be included to support mental health care workers at all tiers. The complexities of mental health care often require a level of expertise that can only be gained through real-world experience and mentorship. Currently, government subsidies and initiatives like the Community Health Assist Scheme offer some financial relief but fall short of providing universal access to mental health services.
There’s also room for improvement concerning the denial of insurance coverage based on a past mental health diagnosis. Addressing this issue would not only reduce the existing stigma around mental health but also remove a significant obstacle for those in need of continuous care and support.Employers can make a significant impact by integrating mental health coverage as a fundamental component of their standard employee benefits packages.
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