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Introduction to Mental Health

​​​​​​​Mental Health and ​Wellness

Most people know that it is important to keep their physical body healthy, but few remember to do the same for their mind and emotions.​ ​​Mental health refers to emotional and psychological well-being. Good mental health helps you to be resilient, confident and happy.

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​​​​​​​​Some Tips To Give Your Mind A Break

  • Set aside some time (e.g. five-10mins) for quiet time where you won't be interrupted by calls, e-mails or other people. ​
  • Think of a time or place that puts you in a state of peac​​e. Use all your senses to relive the experience. Imagine the aroma of the coffee and toast for breakfast in bed on Sundays, or the soothing music you listen to every night. 
  • Listen to relaxing music instead of a news radio, or loud music like rap or rock. 


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Common Mental Health Conditions​


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Myths and Facts on Your Mind​

​Due to the common misconceptions about mental health conditions by the general public, many with mental health issues tend to experience discrimination, which often results in them not seeking help early. Thus, it is essential to understand the myths and facts about mental illness.

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​There are more treatments and community support than ever before. You may refer to Care Services and E-Care Locator to find out more about the available services and programmes, or email c​cmh@aic.sg.​ ​
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You can do a lot, starting with the way you act and how you speak. For example:

  • Avoid labelling people with words like "crazy," "loony", or by their diagnosis.
  • Learn the facts about mental health and share them with others, especially if you hear something that is untrue.
  • Treat people with any mental health condition with respect and dignity. Respect and don't discriminate against them when it comes to housing, employment or education.​ ​​
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​In reality, the vast majority of people who have a mental health condition are no more violent than anyone else. You probably know someone with a mental health condition and don't even realise it. ​
​Mental health conditions are surprisingly common. According to the Singapore Mental Health Study in 2016, more than one out of seven people in Singapore will develop a mental health condition over their lifetime.​

Managing Your Mind

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.


Subsidies And Legal Information

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.

Scheme
 Details
Medisave for Inpatient Psychiatric Episodes Up to $150 a day for daily hospital charges, subject to a maximum of $5,000 a year
Medisave for Outpatient Treatments of 20 conditions under Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) Up to $500 per Medisave account a year. Subject to 15% co-payment by patient. Covers schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, dementia and anxiety
Medishield Life Inpatient Psychiatric Up to 35 days per policy year $100 per day


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)

5. mindline.sg, a resource hub jointly developed by MOH Office for Healthcare Transformation (MOHT), MSF Singapore, NCSS Singapore and Institute of Mental Health Singapore



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