Number of Neighbourly Disputes Referred to IMH by Police and Other Agencies

Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong asked the Minister for Health how many cases have been referred to the Institute of Mental Health by the police or other agencies arising from neighbourly disputes each year in the last three years and what help can residents turn to when encountering neighbours with suspected mental health conditions.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: The Institute of Mental Health (IMH) does not maintain data on the number of cases suspected of mental health conditions, who were referred by the police or other agencies arising from neighbourly disputes. However, the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) has been receiving referrals for mental health assessments arising from neighbourly disputes. Between 2015 and 2017, 31 referrals were received by AIC, of whom eight had active mental health symptoms and were referred to IMH for treatment.

In the community, residents who observe persons who display disturbing behaviours can contact AIC at [email protected] for assistance and referral. If they encounter persons in crisis, residents can contact the IMH Mental Health 24-hour Helpline at 6389 2222, which is manned by counsellors who are trained to assess and triage cases, and activate home visit teams quickly if necessary.

In cases where a person is behaving in a manner that is dangerous to self or others, members of the public should call ‘999’ for urgent police assistance.