The two main pathways
Singapore's subsidised mental health system runs through two entry points: polyclinics and the Institute of Mental Health (IMH). Most people start at the polyclinic. Understanding which pathway suits your situation saves weeks.
Pathway 1: Polyclinic
Who it's for: Anyone registered with a Singapore polyclinic. Singaporeans and PRs are subsidised at 50–80% depending on income. CHAS cardholders receive further subsidies.
What happens:
1. Book an appointment at any polyclinic (online at HealthHub or by phone)
2. Tell the doctor you are experiencing mental health difficulties — anxiety, depression, stress, difficulty functioning
3. The GP will conduct a basic assessment
4. If appropriate, they will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist at a restructured hospital (SGH, NUH, TTSH, CGH, KKH, NUHS)
5. You will receive a subsidised rate at the specialist outpatient clinic
Waiting times: Typically 4–8 weeks for a first specialist appointment under the subsidised system.
Cost: With CHAS, polyclinic visits cost $5–$19.50 depending on card type. Specialist referrals are means-tested and typically $20–$80 per session subsidised.
Pathway 2: Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
Who it's for: Those who need specialist psychiatric care — more severe presentations, medication management, or formal diagnosis.
How to access:
- Walk-in to IMH A&E if in crisis (open 24 hours)
- Referral from GP or polyclinic for outpatient appointments
- Self-referral is possible but will be assessed at point of contact
What IMH provides:
- Psychiatric assessment and diagnosis
- Medication management
- Inpatient care if required
- Subsidised psychology and counselling through the hospital system
IMH address: 10 Buangkok View, Singapore 539747. Bus 62, 82, 83 from Hougang or Buangkok MRT.
Community Health Centres (CHCs)
CHCs provide subsidised counselling and mental health support outside the hospital system. They are lower-cost and have shorter waiting times than restructured hospitals.
SAMH (Singapore Association for Mental Health)
Counselling and psychosocial rehabilitation. Fees on sliding scale.
Contact: 1800 283 7019
Care Corner Singapore
Counselling in Mandarin and English. Community-based.
Contact: careline@carecorner.org.sg
Fei Yue Community Services
Counselling and family support. Sliding scale fees.
Contact: helpdesk@fycs.org
TOUCH Mental Wellness
Counselling and psychoeducation programmes. Income-based fees.
Contact: touchmentalwellness@touch.org.sg
The CHAS card and what it covers
The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) gives subsidies to Singapore citizens for GP and dental visits. For mental health:
- CHAS Orange/Blue: Covers GP visits for mental health conditions at GP clinics enrolled in the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP)
- Many GPs under CDMP can manage mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety, prescribe SSRIs, and monitor progress — without a hospital referral
Check your CHAS status: HealthHub app or call 1800 275 2427
If cost is the main barrier
Several options exist for very low-cost or free counselling:
- **IMH CHAT** (Community Health Assessment Team): Free mental health assessment for young people aged 16–30. Walk-in at Orchard Gateway. No referral needed.
- **Medical social workers** at restructured hospitals can arrange financial assistance and connect patients with the appropriate subsidised pathway
- **National Council of Social Service (NCSS)** maintains a directory of subsidised services at app.ncss.gov.sg