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Department of Psychiatry

The Department of Psychiatry at Sengkang General Hospital (SKH) supports the mental wellbeing of patients as they work towards full recovery and lasting health. Our team of psychiatrists are intensively trained to understand the emotional and physical complexities of patients. They are qualified to diagnose and treat a full range of psychiatric and mental disorders with competence and care. We are also available to help all patients manage the stress and anxiety that comes with receiving a new diagnosis, coping with a chronic illness or having a surgery.


Following an initial assessment of your condition, appropriate therapies or treatment methods will be offered and you will take your first steps towards recovery. In all cases, you can rest assured, our psychiatrists maintain patient confidentiality, providing a safe environment where a patient may feel comforted and supported.

  

The psychiatry clinic at SKH is committed to fighting the stigma faced by people with mental health issues. Not only do we strive to make help available for everyone in need, but we are also regularly engaged in promoting mental health awareness and educating Singaporeans so they can take charge of their own mental health.


The Department of Psychiatry at SKH draws upon the strengths of a multidisciplinary team and evidence-based medicine, ensuring that our patients get the best care available. Comprehensive health assessments and treatments are coordinated by psychiatrists, psychologists, our team of experienced nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and others. We also work with our partners in the community like family doctors, polyclinics and social service organisations so that our patients can get help where it is most convenient and appropriate.


The department participates in clinical trials and research endeavours, and works closely with other departments and other centres.

Compassionate and patient in their demeanour, our team of psychiatrists strives to enable our patients to make a successful recovery through psychological, emotional, and social support. If you’re looking for a psychiatrist or mental health service provider near you, look no further than SKH. We assess and treat our patients based on up-to-date and evidence-based medicine and we are constantly striving to improve your experience with us. Taking care of your mental health is essential to living a happy and fulfilling life, and we recommend speaking to your general practitioner to see if a psychiatrist or psychologist can help you.

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Conditions We Treat

If you’re suffering from mental health problems, seeing a psychiatrist can make a big difference. A psychiatrist will give you a professional opinion in a reassuring, confidential environment. There are a number of mental health conditions that our psychiatry department can help you diagnose, treat and manage. Some of these include

Treatments Offered

We offer the following treatments to those in need of professional mental health assistance.

  • Medications
  • Psychological Treatments

FAQs

We understand that for many, it can be stressful to see a psychiatrist for the first time. We hope the following information will be helpful to you.

What are some examples of when you would need to see a psychiatrist?

Your GP might refer you to a psychiatrist or mental health clinic if you're experiencing depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other personality or emotional disorders. Experiencing mental health challenges is completely normal and although many people have never considered therapy and psychiatry, seeing a psychiatrist is a big step towards regaining control of your mental health.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors whereas psychologists are not. This means that psychiatrists can prescribe medication which is one of the major differences between the two professions. Psychiatrists diagnose illness, manage treatment and provide a range of therapies for complex and serious mental illness, whereas psychologists are more focused on providing psychotherapy (talk therapy) to help patients through their mental issues.

What can I expect before and after consultation?

Before the consultation, you will be asked to fill out a pre-assessment form. This form will help us understand and address the needs of our patient. You can also print out and fill out the forms beforehand ( Pre-assessment ) and pass it to your doctor during the consultation. Your doctor will ask about the symptoms you have been experiencing as well as relevant background information to know you better. They may also perform a physical examination, and advise you on further investigations where appropriate.

Your doctor will then explain to you the diagnosis and the treatment options which may include medications, psychological therapy, and referrals to appropriate services both within the hospital and/or in the community.

If you need financial assistance or counselling, there is help available. Click here to find out more.

How long and frequent are the consultations?

It takes approximately 30 minutes for your first consultation. After which, your doctor will discuss with you on the frequency of subsequent consultations, depending on the type and severity of your condition.

How do I make an appointment?

You may call us directly via our appointment centre or obtain a referral letter from any polyclinic/family clinic for subsidised rates.

Is what I share confidential?

Yes. All records are confidential. Medical reports require your consent. We encourage you to speak to your doctor on limits of confidentiality.

What kind of treatment is provided? Do psychiatrists only give out medication?

Our psychiatrists will conduct assessments to determine the best treatment plan and can prescribe medication for psychiatric illnesses and other situations requiring medication intervention. Psychotropic medications are useful and appropriate for some conditions, such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. However, they are not necessary in every case. Psychiatrists are trained to deal with the psychological and interpersonal aspects of difficulties, as well as prescription of medication. Often, therapy and/or a change in a life situation is the appropriate intervention.

Do psychiatrists treat only serious cases?

No. Psychiatrists evaluate and treat individuals with a wide range of difficulties. This is true for those who seek out treatment themselves and those who are referred by others.

What else can a psychiatrist do in addition to providing medication?

After a thorough health assessment conducted by a robust team of psychiatrists and mental health professionals, your doctor may provide you with medication based on your needs, history and circumstances. On top of offering psychiatric treatment through medication, psychiatrists will often conduct talk therapy sessions in order to work through and alleviate a person’s mental condition.

 

Our Care Team

SKH’s team of psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, occupational therapists and medical social workers understand the importance of making a thorough assessment of an individual’s mental condition and past medical history. By collaborating with a diverse and multidisciplinary team, our health assessments and treatments are designed to be as comprehensive and detailed as possible, ensuring the medication or treatment we give you suits you and your circumstances. Our team is dedicated to working with you, or your loved one, to successfully diagnose your conditions and help patients embark on the road to recovery.

 

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