Part of the Health Insider series on POMConnect
Images in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict any specific patient.
Post-Pandemic Woes
In the course of my practice at Otium since its inception in 2023, I’ve noticed a remarkable trend – a prevalence of anxiety and anxiety disorders among our patient population. This upsurge appears to be intricately linked to the post-pandemic landscape, as individuals readjust to normalcy in life and work.
The surge in anxiety prevalence is underpinned by a multitude of factors. The modern-day “pressure cooker experience” in workplaces and educational institutions, exacerbated by the pervasive influence of technology and social media, can create a continuous pressure environment for some individuals. Moreover, shifts in parenting practices may also contribute to this complex scenario.
Approaching Diagnosis and Treatment
As an addiction specialist, my approach to diagnosing and treating anxiety remains rooted in conventional methods, albeit with an openness to atypical presentations. This mindset ensures readiness to address unique manifestations of anxiety that may diverge from the norm.
An invaluable insight gained from my clinical experience is the transformative power of genuine engagement and active listening in alleviating anxiety. By catching subtle cues and fostering a supportive environment, anxiety often dissipates naturally, averting the immediate need for pharmacological intervention. Additionally, adopting precision medicine principles enables us to anticipate medication responses based on comprehensive patient histories and physical examinations.
Challenges and Systemic Issues
Healthcare providers may encounter a myriad of challenges in effectively managing patients with anxiety. Preconceived assumptions and time constraints often hinder comprehensive assessments, leading to a propensity for premature medication initiation. Furthermore, there’s a prevalent tendency to resort to referral rather than taking ownership of patient care, thereby perpetuating fragmented healthcare delivery, and driving up costs.
Personally, I advocate for a holistic approach to patient care. We should move away from operating in silos and embrace a model of comprehensive case management. Leveraging healthcare informatics and big data can enhance care coordination and optimise resource utilisation. This approach empowers healthcare providers to deliver timely, personalised interventions that align with patients’ unique needs and preferences.
Guidance and Resources
My advice to fellow healthcare providers is simple yet profound: listen attentively and allocate time generously for thorough assessments. Resist the urge to initiate or overprescribe medications. Instead, prioritise a humanistic approach that honours the individual’s unique experience. Emphasise empathy, resilience-building, and holistic coping strategies tailored to individual circumstances. Additionally, consider utilising online resources promoting mindfulness and self-CBT emerge as valuable adjuncts, particularly for younger patients with mild to moderate anxiety symptoms.
The prevalence of anxiety and anxiety disorders highlights the ever-important need for a comprehensive approach to care. By prioritising empathy, we can effectively support individuals grappling with anxiety on their journey to wellness. Remember to listen attentively, spend just a little more time during consultations, and perhaps consider more holistic, tailored treatment approaches; all contributing towards better mental health for your patients.
CBT: cognitive behavioural therapy
POMConnect would like to thank Dr Lui Yit Shiang
for his invaluable insights and contribution to this article.
Dr Lui Yit Shiang, MBBS, MMed (Psychiatry), MRC Psych, MSc (Addiction Studies), is a Specialist in Psychiatry and Director at Otium Mindhealth Pte Ltd. He holds certification as a substance abuse and gambling addiction counsellor from the Association of Professionals Specialising in Addiction Counselling (APSAC). He earned his MSc in Addiction Studies from King’s College London with distinction, receiving the award for best research. Dr. Liu was granted the Academic Medicine Development Award (AMDA) by the National University Hospital (NUH). He is also conferred as an Associate of King’s College (AKC) and serves as an associate member of the Academy of Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (ACLP) in the US. Dr Lui’s clinical focus includes addiction psychiatry interventions and comprehensive consultation liaison services, ensuring holistic care for his patients.
To connect with Dr Lui, please visit:
Otium Mindhealth
03-03, i12 Katong, 112 East Coast Road, Singapore 428802
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