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From 18 June 2025, individuals in Singapore can access confidential, round-the-clock mental health support through national mindline 1771.
Singapore’s new 24/7 mental health helpline, national mindline 1771, is now ready. Starting 18 June 2025, anyone in Singapore who is facing emotional or mental health difficulties can reach out for support confidentially and without stigma through a new multi-channel helpline.
Mindline 1771 marks the country’s first round-the-clock, national-level mental health helpline and textline, offering support via:
- Phone: call 1771
- WhatsApp: message +65 6669 1771
- Webchat: use the online chat at mindline.sg
This multi-channel approach ensures individuals can choose the mode of communication they are most comfortable with, whether through real-time voice conversations for those who prefer speaking, or text-based options for those who find it easier to express themselves in writing. All channels provide a safe and confidential space, with the option to remain anonymous.
The helpline is staffed by around 30 full-time trained counsellors and support staff, many of whom have extensive experience handling a broad range of mental health conditions and operating helplines, including the Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline. They are equipped to:
- Offer counselling for those facing life stressors or mental health concerns
- Provide guidance on mental health questions
- Assist with referrals to self-help tools, professional services, or community support
The launch of national mindline 1771 seeks to strengthen Singapore’s mental health support ecosystem by focusing on early intervention. It offers immediate support and helps guide individuals to the appropriate care, reducing the risk of issues escalating to crisis levels.
Those who need longer-term assistance can be referred to community-based services, with information provided on primary care and social support options, including disability services.
To deepen community involvement, a volunteer programme will be piloted in late 2025. Trained in counselling and crisis management, these volunteers will work alongside professionals to support help-seekers.
The service will also partner with CARE Officers from the National CARE Management System, who are trained to provide psychological support during both regular operations and crisis situations.
Dr Koh Poh Koon: A crucial start to mental health support, with progress to come
Speaking at a media doorstop following the launch, Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for Health and Manpower, described national mindline 1771 as a "first stop" for individuals seeking mental health support. The service makes it easier for people to share personal struggles without fear of stigma.
Dr Koh noted that mental health concerns can affect people across all walks of life, including young children, teenagers, working adults, and older individuals, adding that this mode of help needs to be accessible to as many groups of people as possible and meet all the diverse needs.
He also stressed the role of mindline 1771 in helping individuals navigate Singapore’s growing network of over 200 mental health touchpoints. As a first-stop service, the helpline connects people to the appropriate level of support, depending on their needs. This could range from general guidance, to referrals to GPs trained in mental health, or community partners such as family service centres and social service agencies. In emergency cases, the helpline is equipped to escalate calls to the Institute of Mental Health or the police, ensuring individuals in crisis receive urgent care.
Dr Koh added that while the launch of the helpline is a key milestone, its success depends on strong collaboration with community partners. He noted that many partners are already involved, some of whom were present at the launch, and expressed hope that more organisations will join as the service grows and evolves to better serve those in need.
He concluded: “So this is not the end. This is only the very beginning, and we will evolve along the way, as the needs of the society evolves.”
Insights from Intellect: Support must go beyond the surface
Intellect welcomed the launch of the new helpline as an important move in shifting national conversations.
“What was once a personal issue to be managed quietly is now treated as a public health priority, requiring a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” said Theodoric Chew, CEO & Co-founder of Intellect.
Chew stressed that workplace mental health remains a gap despite recent progress. A trial of the helpline showed that young working adults made up the largest group of users, suggesting rising pressures in professional settings.
Despite increased awareness, 56% of Singapore employees still do not feel adequately supported by their employers, according to a recent study by Intellect.
This shows there is still a gap between what companies say and what they actually do to support mental health. Many efforts focus on optics rather than real results. To make a real difference, employers need to look beyond quick fixes such as webinars or wellness days and pay attention to their workplace culture, leadership, and the real issues affecting employees’ wellbeing.
He also noted the importance of Singapore including workplace wellbeing as a national focus area, adding that employers play a crucial early intervention role, much like in the UK, where legislation has been proposed to make Mental Health First Aid training mandatory.
“Singapore’s strategy lays the foundation to improve our mental health ecosystem. But unless we match that effort in the private sector, we risk only treating the symptoms without addressing the root causes,” he shared.
Lead image / Dr Koh Poh Koon's Facebook
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