The task force is seeking feedback to improve these suggestions
Singapore's Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Well-Being has laid out preliminary recommendations on how to improve mental health and well-being of Singaporeans on three specific areas.
One of the three areas cited by the taskforce is on improving workplace well-being measures and employment support, according to a joint statement from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social and Family Development.
"All persons in recovery from mental health conditions should have the opportunity to live with dignity in a caring and inclusive society," said the ministries. "Employment is an important aspect of recovery for persons with mental health conditions as it allows them another avenue to participate meaningfully in society."
The ministries then noted five recommendations in order to improve workplace well-being measures and improve the employability and employment for people with mental health conditions. The following recommendations are:
- Improve mental well-being support systems and work-life harmony strategies for employees in general by partnering employers to increase awareness on mental health resources, and enhance support networks and assistance
- Standardise assessment and referral frameworks for all employment support agencies to provide customised employment support services
- Improve access to training for persons with mental health conditions
- Increase the number and variety of job opportunities available to persons with mental health conditions.
- Equip employers, Human Resource practitioners, supervisors, and colleagues with knowledge on supporting persons with mental health conditions and creating inclusive workplaces, through support services and resources such as helplines and consultancy clinics
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The other two areas include improving the accessibility, coordination, and quality of mental health services, as well as strengthening services and support for youth mental well-being.
The taskforce is now pooling the opinion of the public until August 7, whether online or small group engagements, which will be incorporated in the development of the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy.
"Everyone has a part to play to improve and support mental health and well-being within our families, workplaces, and community, and to build an inclusive and caring society," said the ministries.
"The feedback gathered will help the Taskforce sharpen its recommendations to inform the development of the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy, which will provide overarching goals and strategies to guide and align the various agencies' efforts."