Mental Health Training for Frontline Workers – An Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people around the world. Apart from the clinical syndrome associated with the infection, it has disrupted the lives of many. In Singapore, the outbreak amongst our migrant workers (MW) has impacted on their work and lives in significant ways. The psychological impact has been extremely varied, ranging from physical symptoms like pain, poor appetite, and insomnia, to emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depressed mood. Some can also present with symptoms suggestive of more serious mental illnesses such as psychosis. For many, the symptoms are mild and transitory, but a minority may develop severe mental health concerns such as suicidality and aggression that require additional support.

This webinar aims to provide an overview of the mental health issues faced by MWs, and introduces the audience to “Psychological First Aid”, a simple tool that can provide frontline workers with basic knowledge and skills to help MWs affected by the crises in their lives. We will also introduce the audience to the workflow for management of MWs with mental health distress.