Ann Acad Med Singap
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Ann Acad Med Singap · May 2023
Impact of COVID-19 on mental health and social service provision in Singapore: Learnings from a descriptive mixed-methods study for future resource planning.
COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown measures have led to impact on the mental health and social service delivery, including the rapid adoption of digital solutions to mental healthcare delivery in Singapore. This study aims to rapidly document the quantitative and qualitative impact of the pandemic restrictions on mental health and social services. ⋯ Two key findings are distilled: (1) mental health and social services have been challenged to meet the evolving demands brought about by the pandemic; (2) more societal attention is needed on mental health and social services. The findings indicate a necessary need for extensive studies on COVID-19 that can inform policies to build a more pandemic-resilient nation.
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Ann Acad Med Singap · May 2023
Risk and protective factors of mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in Singapore.
The main aims of the study were to: establish the average levels of psychological distress, suicidality and positive mental health (PMH); and examine their associated risk and protective factors in the population of Singapore during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. ⋯ The findings highlight the negative impact of fear of COVID-19 infection, social distancing and isolation on the mental health of the population. Resilience and PMH were associated with lower psychological stress, and interventions to improve these characteristics can enhance mental health and well-being.