Singlife has announced a partnership with the Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) to offer a mental health insurance scheme specifically designed for legal professionals.
The program will be available to over 13,000 SAL members, providing services such as mental health coaching, clinical therapy, and a range of self-care tools aimed at managing the stresses of legal work.
This group insurance scheme, which is offered at no cost to members, includes mental wellness support valued at over S$1,000 per person each year.
Benefits include three 30-minute virtual or text-based sessions with licensed mental health coaches, and up to three one-hour therapy or counselling sessions with certified psychologists or psychiatrists, which can be accessed in person or remotely.
A personalised self-care platform, featuring wellness programs and a 24/7 crisis support hotline, is also part of the package.
Singlife, which will underwrite the insurance program, will offer additional benefits such as personal accident coverage of S$15,000 for accidental death or total permanent disability. Other perks for those who enrol include:
The program was introduced at the inaugural Legal Professional Symposium, where Justice Valerie Thean highlighted the importance of addressing mental health concerns in the legal profession.
She emphasised that mental wellness is increasingly recognised as a pressing issue, both globally and in Singapore, and described the initiative as a timely response to the unique stresses faced by legal professionals.
Chia Ko Wen, head of sustainability at Singlife, said the initiative aligns with the company’s goal of promoting financial protection and overall wellbeing in communities.
“By investing in mental wellness, we contribute to a healthier, more resilient workforce and a sustainable future for all,” he said.
SAL’s chief executive, Yeong Zee Kin, said that good mental health practices are crucial for maintaining both professional effectiveness and personal wellbeing.
“The legal profession plays a critical role in the administration of justice, and maintaining good mental wellness practices is essential for both quality of life and professional effectiveness,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the insurance scheme would help lawyers build long-term career resilience and better cope with the challenges of their profession.
The partnership between Singlife and SAL is scheduled to begin in Jan. 2025 and will last for two years.
The new insurance scheme aligns with broader trends in Singapore, where mental health concerns are growing.
A recent survey conducted by AIA Singapore found that half of the population believes more resources should be allocated to tackle mental health challenges.
According to the 2024 AIA Live Better Study, Singapore’s overall wellness score remains steady at 61.5, but mental health has become a significant focus, particularly as people struggle with the rising cost of living and other stressors.
Cost also remains a concern, with 42% of those experiencing mental health issues citing high expenses as a reason for not seeking help. However, 47% of respondents said they would consider using teleconsultation services for mental health, noting the convenience and flexibility of remote care options.
The survey also highlighted financial wellness as a significant issue, with nearly 70% of Singaporeans struggling to meet their financial goals despite 58% prioritizing long-term financial planning. Many respondents admitted that they do not actively engage in financial planning or seek professional advice, relying instead on basic tools such as spreadsheets.
Physical wellness was another area of concern. While 60% of respondents rated their fitness levels as high, only 56% reported undergoing regular health screenings, despite acknowledging the importance of preventive healthcare.
