SINGAPORE: With a survey finding that most Singaporeans do not have direct access to mental health services, the Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH) is hoping to address this with a new programme that will see those at risk of psychiatric conditions receiving home visits.
Findings from the Singapore Mental Health Study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health in 2011 revealed that only one in three persons with mental illness have access to services. Up to 70 per cent of those who need help are not linked to services in the community as well.
Aiming to close this gap, the programme will see a multi-disciplinary team of allied health professionals - such as case workers and peer specialists - pay home visits to those at risk of psychiatric conditions. The SAMH will work with grassroots leaders to identify at-risk persons and the public can also approach it if they need help. The association expects to serve at least 50 clients by the end of this year and double this figure by the end of next year.
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Category(s):Mental Health in Asia
Source material from Channel News Asia
