Role of Peer and Community Support Networks in Mental Well-being and Strengthening Lower-barrier Avenues Complementing Formal Mental Health Services

Dr Choo Pei Ling asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) how does the Ministry assess the role of peer, community and informal support networks in supporting mental well-being; (b) whether there are plans to further strengthen lower-barrier avenues of support for individuals who may not be ready to seek professional help; and (c) how such efforts complement formal mental health services.

Peer, community and informal support networks are an important part of Singapore's mental health ecosystem. Family members, friends, colleagues, peers and community volunteers are often the first to notice when someone is struggling. They can provide emotional support, encourage early help-seeking and, where appropriate, offer initial support while guiding individuals to suitable services.

Many individuals may not be ready to seek professional help immediately. To provide lower-barrier avenues of support, the Ministry of Health has established First Stop for Mental Health services, including the national mindline 1771 and mindline.sg. These services allow individuals to seek information, guidance and support, including anonymously if they prefer. Where needed, they also encourage individuals to seek formal mental health services and facilitate referrals with the individual's consent.

Beyond these services, we are strengthening community capability through efforts to improve mental health literacy, reduce stigma and equipping more people with basic mental health skills. These include programmes, such as the Health Promotion Board's Peer Support Training Programme and the Agency for Integrated Care's online Mental Health Awareness modules.

These efforts complement, rather than replace, formal mental health services. Together, they support earlier identification of concerns, encourage timely help-seeking and ensure that individuals receive the level of care that best meets their needs, from community and peer support for those with milder concerns, to professional assessment and treatment where required.