DPM Heng Swee Keat Says National Care Hotline Will Help Singaporeans In Emotional Distress Due To Covid-19
As our nation comes to grips with Covid-19, many Singaporeans are understandably experiencing greater levels of anxiety.
The Government will not be leaving these people in the lurch, however. They will have access to a mental health hotline run by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).
This is what Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said as he announced the Solidarity Budget on Monday (6 Apr).
National care hotline to complement public-sector officers’ support
Mr Heng, who is also finance minister, acknowledged in his speech that some citizens might need emotional help during this draining period.
Thus, the MSF’s National Care hotline, which is run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, will “complement the support” that public-sector officers provide, said Minister for Social and Family Development Desmond Lee in a Facebook post on Sunday (5 Apr).
Mr Heng expressed his gratitude to the team of mental health professionals who have graciously volunteered their services to support this hotline.
While Singapore is on “circuit-breaker” mode, Mr Heng also assured that community mental health support services would remain available.
Citizens in need of emotional support will be able to get professional help through phone consultations or home visits.
A range of stressors due to Covid-19
The pandemic is causing major disruptions to our everyday life.
Not only do we have worry about our health and that of our loved ones, we also have to adapt to social distancing protocols, and struggle with our jobs and taking care of our children amid school closures. Worse, some might be dealing with a loss in income and even sudden unemployment.
Those under Stay-Home Notice or quarantine may also face anxiety over their isolation and fears they might get the virus.
Such issues might cause much panic and anxiety, and the introduction of this hotline might be the very thing Singaporeans need to deal with these inevitable emotions.
Ensuring we are psychologically prepared
While Singapore is well-equipped to handle the virus through measures, our citizens also have to stay strong psychologically in face of the pandemic.
As such, if you require emotional and psychological assistance during this period of uncertainty, do not hesitate to call the hotline.
Do chec MSF’s website for more updates on how to access the hotline.
Featured image adapted from Unsplash.
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