literally not coping well at all and i think i rlly need help soon. ive been trying to search for therapy options. I know NCSS has some supported counselling services which are quite affordable but honestly, i think im at the point where i might need to be medicated. but im also not too sure.
i can technically just try the counselling first but like, i just want to find the most efficient option that is most suited to help me because im lowkey getting a bit desperate.
Can someone let me know the rates if i go through the polyclinic route? and what will go on my records should i choose that route?
thanks
Hi @wannagetbetter,
I’m really sorry you’re feeling this overwhelmed. The fact that you’re actively searching for help, even while feeling desperate, tells me you’re still fighting for yourself. That matters. When things feel like they’re spiralling, it’s completely valid to want the most effective, efficient support instead of trial-and-error. Based on my research, here’s what I could find.
If you go through the polyclinic route in Singapore, here’s generally how it works. You book a consultation at a public polyclinic (e.g. National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, SingHealth Polyclinics, or National University Polyclinics). The GP will assess you and, if needed, refer you to a public psychiatrist or hospital (such as the Institute of Mental Health or a restructured hospital).
Cost-wise (approximate, subsidised Singapore Citizen rates):
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Polyclinic consult: $15–$30
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If referred to a public psychiatrist (subsidised route): $40–$90 per visit, depending on clinic level
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Medication costs vary, but common antidepressants under subsidy can be relatively affordable.
Subsidies:
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CHAS (if you have a CHAS card) can reduce consultation costs at participating GPs.
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Medisave can be used for certain outpatient psychiatric treatments (currently up to a yearly withdrawal cap for approved conditions).
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If you’re referred through a polyclinic, you’ll be considered a subsidised patient, which significantly lowers specialist fees compared to private.
About records:
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Mental health consultations in public healthcare are recorded in your medical record (like any other condition). They are confidential within the healthcare system. They are not publicly accessible, and employers do not automatically have access. However:
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Certain jobs (e.g., the SAF, or specific government roles) may require medical declarations.
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You are generally required to make a medical declaration if you are required to undergo National Service.
Resources:
I hope this helps! Take care of yourself. 
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Hey @wannagetbetter ,
You’ve already received clear practical information above, so I won’t repeat that.
What stood out to me is the word “desperate.” When thoughts turn toward medication quickly, it often means things feel hard to manage, not just uncomfortable.
Before deciding between counselling or medication, it helps to check one thing first: Are you safe right now? If your thoughts are moving toward harming yourself, that becomes the priority. In that case, immediate support is more important than choosing the best long-term option.
If this is more about wanting faster relief, you can say that directly to the polyclinic doctor. You don’t need to prove anything. Just describe what the past months or years have been like sleep, appetite, mood, energy, concentration, how it’s affecting daily life. They will assess and discuss options. Asking about medication does not commit you to taking it.
It may also help not to frame this as finding the “most efficient” route. When things feel urgent, it’s natural to want the fastest solution. But in mental health care, the most helpful path is usually the one you can consistently follow through on.
You’re actively looking for help. That matters. The next step needs to match how urgent things feel for you right now.
If tonight feels too much to manage on your own, you can call SOS at 1767 or 1771 for immediate support. Most importantly, you are reaching out.
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thank you, this really helped a lot. i was doing my own research and started getting so anxious and overwhelmed about this for no reason.
genuinely appreciate you taking your time to help 
what you said about not needing to prove myself really resonates. i think ive not been putting may things of not just cuz of money but also cuz im scared the doctors wont take me seriously.
the reason i wanted something efficient is cuz its getting to the point i cant get out of bed. and career wise, i know this is really bad. i was thinking i just need something to get me functional so at least when its over, i still have my job yk?
but thank you. ur words rlly comforted me
Hey @wannagetbetter,
No problem - that is what Befrienders do on Let’s Talk. 
And thank you to @FuYuan_Affections for adding on more positive energy to the conversation too!