Singapore Launches National Guidebook for Mental Health Support Assessment

On July 16, Singapore introduced a national guidebook aimed at streamlining the assessment and referral process for people seeking mental health support, marking a significant step in implementing its four-tier care model. Senior Minister of State for Health, Koh Poh Koon, released the guide during the eighth Singapore Mental Health Conference, highlighting results from a 2023 national survey that found 15 percent of residents reported struggles with mental health issues.

The four-tier model is designed to categorize mental health services according to the severity of symptoms, complexity of needs, and the required intensity of interventions. The initial tier provides foundational support, which includes initiatives such as school-based mental health programs, digital self-help resources, and community support networks like parent groups and peer support systems. In contrast, the most advanced tier features psychiatric evaluations and medical interventions conducted by trained mental health professionals.

For instance, an individual dealing with moderate distress might begin with support from tier two and, if a standardized assessment indicates the need for more intensive care, be referred to tier three for advanced intervention. The guidebook primarily addresses common mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and suicidality, with plans for future updates to encompass less prevalent mental health conditions. Additionally, Koh announced upcoming expansions of acute psychiatric services throughout all regional healthcare clusters to enhance accessibility and ensure continuous care for residents across Singapore.