Introduction to Mental Health

Studies have shown that you can recover better if you get treated early. 

If you have a mental health condition:

• Don't isolate yourself socially. Share your condition with someone you trust. You may wish to share with them your feelings of fear or uncertainty, or simply help them to understand how they can support you in your rehabilitation.
• Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about your condition. You can join a support group to share your experiences with others who have the same condition as you.
• Most importantly, follow up on your treatment to improve and manage your condition.

If your loved one has a mental health condition

Remember that mental health conditions can be treated, and you play a very important role in helping your loved one to progress and recover. Offer support and empathy for the person with a mental health condition. Mental health conditions are no different from any other conditions. It is not your fault that your loved one has the condition and you can help by accepting and learning more about the condition. If your loved one has not yet started treatment, encourage him/her to seek help from professionals, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, counsellor or doctor, as early as possible.

If you have recovered and plan to re-join the workforce

You may want to get in touch with agencies that provide job placement for persons with mental health condition, to find out more about the job opportunities and prepare yourself for work. If you are worried that you may not be able to cope with a full-time job, choose part-time work first. Let yourself get used to working life before you switch to a full-time job. Continue to take part in social gatherings and leisure activities even when you're looking for jobs or have started work. Social interaction gives us a chance to enhance our social skills and become more comfortable meeting new people.

Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP)

Schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder and dementia are in the list of conditions covered by the Medisave for Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP). You can use Medisave for CDMP to help pay part of the outpatient cost.

The other forms of assistance are:

1. Using your own Medisave to pay for approved dependents (Citizens and PR children, spouse, parents, grandparents and siblings) medical cost for the schemes in the table 

2. Some insurers provide critical illness plans that protect both physical and mental health. The policies may cover conditions such as bipolar condition, major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, and more. 

3. Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) 

4. Making a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)