Inclusion of Mental Health Screening in Grow Well SG Programme's Child Health Plan

Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether mental health screening will be included as part of the Child Health Plan initiative under the Grow Well SG programme.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: There is no strong scientific evidence to support routine, mental health screening for asymptomatic individuals. Singapore hence adopts a risk-based approach that focuses on early identification and intervention for children and adults with mental health concerns.

In Ministry of Education schools and Institutes of Higher Learning, there are trained peer supporters, educators and staff who can identify signs of distress among students and provide the necessary support, including referring them to mental health professionals in the community for further assessment and intervention.