Most were seeking help for anxiety issues, emotional and financial support, and worries amid COVID-19, says Singapore minister
In a span of two weeks, more than 6,600 people in Singapore have called the newly launched National CARE hotline to seek mental health support amid COVID-19.
“Anxiety, the need for emotional support, concerns over finances and marital disputes were among the top issues surfaced by callers,” Desmond Lee, Minister for Social and Family Development (MSF) said in a Facebook post.
“Some callers expressed fear over the spread of COVID-19 and were worried about their health and future. Others shared their frustration dealing with the impact of the pandemic on their daily lives, while our counsellors offered them a listening ear.”
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Helmed by about 500 volunteers, Lee said callers who need further help are referred to the relevant healthcare services. The volunteers are psychologists, counsellors, social workers, psychiatrists and public officers on a daily roster for the 24-hour hotline.
In an interview with local media, MSF’s chief psychologist Vivienne Ng broke down the most common concerns raised:
In many cases, callers are connected with existing social service agencies able to provide specialised help on a “more prolonged basis”.
“Taking care of our mental and emotional health is key to us emerging stronger from this crisis,” said Minister Lee. “Let’s encourage our family members and friends whom we know are feeling down or distressed to pick up the phone and dial in to the National CARE Hotline, or our other community helplines.”
If you or someone you know needs support, please contact the following helplines:
For violence or abuse
