Mental Health

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and behave in daily life. It affects how we manage stress, relate to others, and make decisions. A healthy mental state enables individuals to function effectively, cope with challenges, and maintain meaningful relationships.

How common are Mental Health concerns in Singapore?

Mental health concerns are more widespread than many may realise. In Singapore, studies indicate that one in seven people will experience a mental disorder in their lifetime. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders have been rising, particularly with increasing societal pressures, workplace stress, and personal challenges.

Despite growing awareness, mental health stigma remains a barrier to seeking help. As such, recognising the prevalence of these conditions highlights the importance of early intervention, and professional support.

Types of Mental Health conditions

When it comes to mental health conditions, it encompasses a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from common issues such as anxiety, and depression to more complex disorders like schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

However, some of the most prevalent conditions include:

• Anxiety Disorders – persistent worry, fear or panic that interferes with daily activities.
• Bipolar Disorder – extreme mood swings, including depressive, and manic episodes.
• Depression – a prolonged sense of sadness, loss of interest, and low energy levels.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – unwanted repetitive thoughts, and compulsive behaviours.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – emotional distress triggered by past traumatic experiences.
• Schizophrenia – a severe mental condition affecting perception, thought processes, and behaviour.

What affects Mental Health?

Several factors contribute to mental well-being, including:

• Biological factors – genetics, brain chemistry, and hormonal imbalances can predispose individuals to mental health conditions.
• Life experiences – traumatic events, abuse or prolonged stress can trigger mental health disorders.
• Physical health – chronic illnesses, sleep disorders, and poor nutrition can also influence mental health.
• Social and environmental factors – work stress, financial difficulties, and strained relationships can impact mental well-being.
• Substance use – alcohol, drugs, and even excessive caffeine can alter brain function, and emotional stability.

What are the symptoms of Mental Health issues?

Mental health conditions manifest differently in each individual. But some of the common signs to look out for include:

• Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
• Excessive worry or anxiety.
• Fatigue, and loss of motivation.
• Increased reliance on alcohol, drugs or other substances.
• Persistent sadness or mood swings.
• Unexplained physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues.
• Withdrawal from social interactions.

What are the warning signs of Mental Health issues?

It is natural to experience stress, sadness or anxiety from time to time as these are part of life’s ups, and downs. However, if these feelings become persistent, overwhelming or start affecting your ability to function in daily life, it may indicate an underlying mental health condition that requires professional attention.

As such, consider reaching out for professional support if you experience any of the following:

WARNING SIGNS	EXAMPLE
Persistent Emotional Distress	Feeling numb, disconnected or emotionally empty.Feeling sad, anxious, irritable or hopeless for weeks or months.Intense mood swings that seem uncontrollable.
Difficulty Managing Daily Responsibilities	Feeling mentally, and physically drained despite rest.Losing motivation at work or school.Neglecting personal hygiene or daily routines.Struggling to concentrate or make decisions.
Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts	Engaging in self-harm such as cutting, burning or other harmful behaviours.Expressing a sense of hopelessness, guilt or feeling like a burden to others.Having thoughts about ending your life or feeling like life is not worth living.
Sleep and Physical Health Issues	Feeling constantly restless, tense or on edge.Frequent headaches, digestive issues, or body aches without a clear medical cause.Insomnia, excessive sleeping or disrupted sleep patterns.
Social Withdrawal and Isolation	Avoiding friends, family or social gatherings.Feeling detached from loved ones or experiencing difficulty forming connections.Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms	Engaging in reckless behaviours, such as impulsive spending or dangerous activities.Overeating, undereating, or experiencing drastic changes in appetite.Relying on alcohol, smoking or substance use to manage emotions.

How can you get your Mental Health assessed in Singapore?

A mental health assessment is a structured evaluation conducted by a trained professional to gain a comprehensive understanding of your psychological well-being. These assessments help identify potential mental health conditions, determine the severity of symptoms, and guide treatment recommendations.

Where can you get a Mental Health assessment?

Mental health assessments are confidential, personalised, and are performed either by doctors, psychologist, psychiatrists or mental health experts. It is important to take a holistic approach, considering physical, emotional, and environmental factors, as it helps to tailor treatment recommendations that best suit each individual. 

Some of the available avenues to have your mental health assessed are:

General Practitioners and Polyclinics (Mental Health General Practitioner Partnership, MHGPP)
Who	Individuals seeking primary care support for mental health conditions.
What	Selected GP clinics, and polyclinics under the MHGPP offer mental health assessments, medication prescriptions, and counselling.
How to Access	Visit a participating GP or polyclinic to discuss concerns, and obtain further referrals if necessary.
Centre for Youth Mental Health, Institute of Mental Health (CHAT)
Who	Young people aged 16 – 30 years old experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, depression or other mental health concerns.
What	A free, personalised, and confidential mental health assessment helps individuals understand their concerns, and explore ways to manage them.
How to Access	Appointments can be made through their online booking system.Assessments are conducted at SCAPE (#04 – 07) or via Zoom or MS Teams.
Community Resource, Engagement and Support Team (CREST)
Who	Individuals experiencing early signs of mental health issues or their caregivers.
What	A community-based initiative providing screening, emotional support, and referrals to appropriate services.
How to Access	Available at multiple community service providers in Singapore, particularly for those who are unsure about the type of mental health support they need.
Community Intervention Teams (COMIT)
Who	Individuals with existing mental health conditions or dementia, as well as their caregivers.
What	Provides psychosocial support, counselling, and therapy to help manage conditions effectively.
How to Access	Typically connected through referrals from healthcare professionals or mental health services.

Why should you get a Mental Health assessment?

A mental health assessment provides valuable insights into your well-being, and helps you take proactive steps toward better mental health. In fact, early detection of mental health conditions allows for timely intervention, personalised treatment plans, and improved long-term outcomes. Whether you are experiencing persistent stress, anxiety, depression or difficulty coping with daily life, professional assessment, and support can make a significant difference.

It is important to understand that seeking help is a sign of strength. If you are struggling, know that support is available, and taking the first step towards assessment can lead to meaningful improvements in your overall well-being.

Why seeking a Mental Health assessment is important

Ignoring mental health concerns can lead to worsening symptoms, and complications in both personal, and professional life. Some benefits that come with early intervention are:

• Enhance relationships, and social interactions.
• Improve coping strategies, and emotional resilience.
• Prevent conditions from escalating.
• Provide clarity and peace of mind.
• Reduce the risk of physical health complications linked to stress and anxiety.

What happens if Mental Health is neglected?

Neglecting mental health can have severe consequences, including:

• Decreased productivity, and work performance.
• Higher chances of physical health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened immunity.
• Increased risk of substance abuse.
• Strained relationships with family, and friends.
• Worsening symptoms that may lead to self-harm or suicidal tendencies.

What to expect from a Mental Health assessment

At Phoenix Medical Group, we understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can feel overwhelming. That is why our mental health assessment process is designed to be thorough, professional, and supportive, ensuring that every patient receives the personalised care they need.

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a confidential consultation where you can openly discuss your concerns, symptoms, and emotional well-being. Our healthcare professionals will:

• Assess how symptoms impact your daily life, relationships, and work.
• Explore any stressors, life events or triggers affecting your mental health.
• Listen without judgment, and help you articulate your thoughts and feelings.

Evaluation and diagnosis

Once we understand your concerns, we conduct a structured mental health evaluation that may include:

• Clinical interviews – clinical interviews refer to in-depth discussions about your emotional state, past experiences, and mental health history.

• Physical examination (if necessary) – physical examination may be performed to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, which could contribute to symptoms.

Personalised Care Plan 

Based on the assessment, our mental health experts will proceed to create a customised care plan that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. This may include:

• Psychotherapy or counselling – sessions with mental health professionals to help you develop coping strategies, manage stress, and process emotions.
• Medication management (if necessary) – if medication is recommended, our doctors will explain the benefits, potential side effects, and expected outcomes.
• Lifestyle adjustments and self-care strategies – guidance on sleep, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness techniques to improve overall well-being.

Ongoing Support

Mental health recovery is a journey, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way. As such, regular follow-up consultations help to:

• Address any concerns about therapy, medication or lifestyle changes.
• Monitor progress, and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Provide continuous emotional support, and reassurance.

Summary

Seeking help for mental health is a courageous decision that can be life-changing. At Phoenix Medical Group, we prioritise a compassionate, patient-centred approach, ensuring that every individual feels heard, understood, and empowered on their journey to mental well-being.

If you or a loved one is struggling, know that help is available, and you are not alone.

Reach out to us to schedule a confidential mental health assessment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a mental health assessment?

You may benefit from a mental health assessment if you experience persistent stress, anxiety, sadness, mood swings or difficulty coping with daily life. Other signs include changes in sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. If these symptoms affect your relationships, work or well-being, seeking professional help is a good step.

Can my GP assess my mental health or do I need to see a specialist?

Yes, GPs can conduct initial mental health assessments, provide support, and recommend treatment options. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or counsellor for further evaluation or therapy if needed.

Can my GP assess my mental health or do I need to see a specialist?

Yes, GPs can conduct initial mental health assessments, provide support, and recommend treatment options. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or counsellor for further evaluation or therapy if needed.

What conditions can be diagnosed through a mental health assessment?

A mental health assessment can help identify conditions such as:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Bipolar disorder.
• Depression and anxiety disorders.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Sleep disorders.
• Stress-related conditions, and burnout.
• Other emotional, and behavioural concerns.

Will I need medication after a mental health assessment?

Not necessarily. Treatment plans are individualised, and while some conditions may benefit from medication, others can be managed with therapy, counselling or lifestyle changes. If medication is recommended, our doctors will discuss the options and guide you through the process.

Are mental health assessments confidential?

Yes, all assessments, and consultations are strictly confidential. Your information will not be shared without your consent, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, in which case, appropriate measures will be taken to ensure safety.

How long does a mental health assessment take?

The duration varies depending on the complexity of the concerns. Typically, an initial assessment takes between 30 minutes to an hour, but follow-up sessions may be scheduled for further evaluation and support.

Can I get a mental health assessment online?

Some mental health services offer teleconsultations via Zoom or MS Teams for initial discussions. However, a full assessment may require an in-person visit, especially if physical health checks are needed.

How can I support a loved one who may need a mental health assessment?

Encourage open conversations, listen without judgment, and offer reassurance. You can help by suggesting professional support, and even accompanying them to an appointment. Avoid dismissing their feelings or pressuring them to "snap out of it", as mental health struggles are real, and deserve proper care.

What happens after my assessment?

After your assessment, our team will provide you with a personalised care plan, which may include therapy, medication (if needed), lifestyle recommendations, and follow-up appointments to track progress.

How do I book a mental health assessment at Phoenix Medical Group?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our clinic, booking online or visiting us in person. Our friendly team is here to assist you every step of the way.

If you have further questions, feel free to reach out. We are here to help.