Help for Postnatal Depression in Singapore
Every service, hotline, and referral pathway available in Singapore for postnatal depression - including what to say when you make that first call.
If you are in crisis right now
IMH Crisis Line
6389 2222
24 hours, 7 days
Samaritans of Singapore
1-767
24 hours, 7 days
Emergency
995
Immediate danger only
Hospital-Based Services
KKH Women's Mental Wellness Service
KKH has a dedicated perinatal mental health service staffed by psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers who specialise in pregnancy and postnatal mental health. They understand the Singapore context and the barriers women face.
NUH Women's Emotional Health Service
NUH offers structured screening and treatment for postnatal depression through their O&G department and psychological medicine service. Ask at your 6-week check or contact them directly.
Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
Singapore's national psychiatric centre. Outpatient psychiatry and psychology services available. Referral from GP or O&G gives subsidised rates. Walk-in to the emergency department if in crisis.
Community Helplines and Support
| Organisation | Contact | Hours | What They Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| AWARE Women's Helpline | 1800-777-5555 | Mon-Fri 3pm-9:30pm | Confidential support, referrals, PND-aware counselling |
| Samaritans of Singapore | 1-767 | 24 hours | Emotional support, active listening, crisis intervention |
| PPIS | 6748 9440 | Office hours | Support for Malay/Muslim mothers; culturally sensitive counselling |
| Families for Life | familiesforlife.sg | Office hours | Parent groups, community programmes, peer support |
| TOUCHLine | 1800-377-2252 | Mon-Fri 9am-6pm | TOUCH Family Services; counselling and referral |
The Polyclinic Pathway: Affordable and Accessible
If cost is a concern, the polyclinic pathway is the most affordable route to mental health support in Singapore.
Visit your nearest polyclinic and tell the doctor: "I think I may have postnatal depression. I need a referral." You do not need to minimise your symptoms. Be honest.
The polyclinic doctor will do a brief assessment and can refer you to the psychiatric department at a restructured hospital (KKH, NUH, SGH, Alexandra) at subsidised rates.
Subsidised outpatient psychiatric consultation at a restructured hospital costs $20-60 for Singapore citizens after subsidies. MediShield Life covers eligible treatments.
If you need immediate help and cannot wait for a referral, the IMH emergency department is open 24 hours. You do not need a referral to go to the emergency department.
What to Say When You Call
Many women struggling with PND do not reach out because they do not know what to say or they are afraid of being judged. Here is a simple script that works:
For a helpline (AWARE, Samaritans)
"I had a baby [X weeks/months] ago. I have been feeling very low and unable to cope. I think I might have postnatal depression. I need to talk to someone."
For a GP or polyclinic
"I had a baby [X weeks] ago and I have been feeling very depressed and unable to function. I think I need help for postnatal depression. Can you do an assessment and if needed, refer me?"
You do not have to explain everything at once. You do not have to "prove" how bad it is. You do not have to be polite about your symptoms. A clear statement that you are struggling and need help is enough.