Reports & Publications

Introduction and Executive Summary 

The migrant worker population especially those in gazetted ‘isolation areas’ and those undergoing treatment for COVID-19 are at risk for mental distress; this distress can result in uncooperativeness, anxiety, depression, suicidal risks and violent behaviours. This is the so-called “second outbreak” – the psychological contagion that causes no less significant collateral damage.

Neglecting mental wellbeing and psychosocial care of migrant workers is detrimental to both the individual and the host community, as well as the healthcare system that is already straining to contain the main outbreak.

All stakeholders involved in the care of migrant workers in any setting – dormitories, hospitals, isolation facilities – have a part to play in addressing their mental health and psychosocial aspects of care during this COVID19 pandemic, and ensure that further marginalization of this vulnerable group is prevented.

– Dr Chan Lai Gwen, Consultant Psychiatrist, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Psychiatry Technical Advisor &  ex-Board member to HealthServe