Mindful Healing: Nurturing Mental Wellness in Respite Care

Discover the leading mental disorders in Singapore through this comprehensive guide, which also delves into various treatment options and their corresponding costs. Major Depressive Disorder stands out due to its more intense symptoms compared to occasional episodes of sadness and pessimism.

If you have been persistently feeling unhappy, lacking interest in life, or experiencing increased suicidal thoughts for at least two weeks, there is a chance that you may be grappling with Major Depressive Disorder. The encouraging aspect is that effective treatment exists for this condition.

IMH compiled an extensive inventory detailing the prevalent mental disorders in the country, including their respective treatment options and financial implications. Among these disorders lies schizophrenia – a severe illness that manifests itself in various forms and typically gives rise to hallucinations or distorted beliefs. 

Individuals with schizophrenia often experience constant feelings of being monitored, persecuted, or embroiled in conspiracies. These distorted mental perceptions frequently impede their ability to carry out everyday tasks or engage in regular social interactions. Typically, treatment involves administering anti-psychotic medication to restore a healthy equilibrium of neurological chemicals within the brain.

The list presented below offers a glimpse into the prevailing mental illnesses in Singapore, shedding light on the methods of treatment and the costs involved. One specific mental condition that stands out is dementia, which primarily affects the elderly population and leads to a decline in cognitive abilities.

Alzheimer’s Disease, among various other types of dementia, plays a significant role as it progressively hampers memory function. This results in forgetfulness and disorientation while posing challenges when it comes to recognizing close family members or efficiently handling day-to-day tasks.

In spite of the fact that dementia often cannot be reversed, medication can bring about relief from symptoms. Additionally, health-care professionals may propose interventions in occupational therapy to enhance the living conditions of individuals coping with difficulties related to dementia.

When senior patients require prolonged assistance that exceeds what their caregivers can provide, it becomes imperative to consider involving professional caregivers or relocating them to nursing home facilities. 

Since Dementia predominantly impacts older individuals, senior citizens have the option to seek guidance from medical experts at IMH psycho-geriatric clinics or Memory Clinics situated at Changi General Hospital, IMH, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, and National University Hospital, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Singapore General Hospital. Additionally, IMH offers dementia-friendly wards that are specially designed to manage intense behavioral and psychological episodes in psychiatric patients aged 65 years and above.

Using alcohol as a means of escape from troubles is a common practice, however, alcohol abuse extends beyond occasional excessive drinking. It is a detrimental condition characterized by impulsive consumption despite negative consequences and personal deterioration. Attempting to overcome this addiction can lead to withdrawal symptoms and difficulties in social interaction and daily functioning.

In Singapore, there are specific facilities such as the National Addictions Management Service and The Cabin Singapore, a treatment center that specializes in helping people with addictions. They focus on substance addictions like alcohol and drugs, as well as process addictions like gambling, sex, and excessive internet use. that offer support to individuals seeking help for these dependencies. The financial burden related to mental illness arises when individuals have concerns about their own or their loved ones’ psychological well-being. It becomes crucial to ensure that the patient receives appropriate diagnosis and treatment. The following are some estimated costs associated with this situation:

At the Institute of Mental Health (IMH), individuals can receive diagnostic services for various mental health conditions. Subsidized patients have the option to avail these services at a reduced cost, beginning with an initial consultation fee of $38 and subsequent visits priced at $35.

It should be noted that meeting the criteria for subsidized care at IMH requires obtaining a referral from a polyclinic doctor, which incurs an additional expense of $10.70. Conversely, individuals who do not qualify for subsidies may face the entire price range of $92 to $140 for their initial consultation at IMH.

Opting for a private session with a psychiatrist can be quite expensive, starting at $100 or even higher in cost. In cases where counseling is necessary, patients have the choice of attending multiple sessions with either a psychologist or psychotherapist. On the other hand, public health-care clinics generally have lengthier wait times and larger gaps between treatments while charging a more modest fee ranging from $40 to $60 per session.

If you find yourself in need of support or assistance regarding mental health concerns, there are several helplines that you can turn to for help. For round-the-clock assistance, the Institute of Mental Health has a dedicated Mental Health Helpline which can be contacted by dialing the number 6389 2222.

Samaritans of Singapore is available throughout the day and night to provide aid through their helpline numbers:1800 221 4444 and 1767. Likewise, the Singapore Association for Mental Health offers support via their helpline number: 1800-283-7019 while Silver Ribbon Singapore can be reached at 6386 1928.

Tinkle Friend can be reached at the helpline number:1800 2744 788. The Community Health Assessment Team can be contacted at 6493-6500 / 6501 or through their website for community health assessment and counselling services. Additional counselling helplines include TOUCH-line (Counselling): 1800 377 2252, TOUCH Care Line for seniors and caregivers):6804 6555 and Care Corner Counselling Centre:1800-3535-800. Online assistance is also available on mindline.sg and Fei Yue e-Counselling Center’s website.

Here are some options for free counselling treatment with their respective contact details:

• Silver Ribbon Singapore can be reached at the following numbers: H.O.L.A. at Serangoon Central – 6386 1928, The Linkage at Wisma Geylang Serai – 6509 0271, Raintree Sanctuary at Hougang St 51- 6385 3714

They offer face-to-face counselling services free of charge weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm, but appointments are required.

• Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH) provides mental health-related assistance through their helpline at 1800-2837019.They have individual donation-based counselling slots available, which can be accessed for free if you have a low budget. Appointments are necessary, and they operate exclusively on weekdays from 9 am to 6 pm.
• AWARE operates a helpline specifically for women, which can be contacted at 1800-7775555.
• Care Corner Counselling Centre offers a Mandarin counseling helpline at 1800-3535800.

Engaging mental health services for respite care in Singapore is crucial for individuals who are in need of temporary relief and support. These services not only provide a much-needed break for caregivers but also offer a safe and therapeutic environment for those with mental health conditions.