Debated in Parliament on 6 Aug 2019.
Assoc Prof Walter Theseira asked the Minister for Health (a) what are the figures and trends of persons of minority sexual orientations or gender identities who are seeking mental healthcare; and (b) whether there are plans to provide resources to targeted counselling and social services, as well as LGBTQ-sensitivity training to service providers, to address their specific mental health and psychological well-being needs.
MOH does not keep track of the number of people with minority sexual orientations or gender identities seeking mental health care.
Public mental health services are available to all Singaporeans irrespective of gender identity. Over the years, MOH has worked with partner agencies, healthcare institutions and community service providers to develop and expand mental health services for persons who require care and support. In addition, the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) has set up the Gender Care Clinic in 2017, offering counselling and mental health support for persons experiencing emotional difficulties pertaining to gender identity. As the service is relatively new, it is premature to infer trends at this point in time.
Healthcare providers caring for persons with mental health conditions are trained to support these persons with empathy, sensitivity and due consideration of their specific care needs.
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