The Safety Net
Schizophrenia & Psychotic Disorders Singapore
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Tan Sheng Neng
MMED (Psych), MBBS, MCI, FAMSPsychotic disorders are a group of severe mental health conditions that impacts the mind, causing one to have difficulty thinking, processing information or behaving appropriately. One of the most common psychotic disorders is schizophrenia, a chronic mental condition characterised by an abnormal interpretation of reality, resulting in hallucinations and delusions. It is crucial to seek early diagnosis and treatment if you experience the following early warning signs:
- Social withdrawal
- Hostility
- Deterioration of personal hygiene
- Inability to express emotions
What Is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a severe psychotic disorder typically associated with a distorted perception of reality, leading to disorganised thinking and behaviour. Schizophrenia symptoms may be so severe that they can impair daily functioning to a great extent.
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Dr. Tan Sheng Neng 
Dr Tan was the Director of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service (2017-2019) at Changi General Hospital (CGH), Singapore. He was also an Assistant Director (Psych) of the Integrated Sleep Service at CGH (SingHealth Duke-NUS Sleep Centre), where he helped develop into a department in 2018.
- Master of Medicine (Psychiatry)
- Master of Clinical Investigation (MCI)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS)
At present, besides the clinical work in his clinic and hospitals, Dr Tan also holds the following appointments:
- Clinical Advisor to Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
- Lecturer to Executive Counselling and Training Academy (ECTA)
Dr Tan has a specialised interest in neuropsychiatry. He treats patients with Sleep Disorders, Mild Cognitive Impairment and Brain trauma or injury, particularly from strokes.
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Common Symptoms of Psychotic Disorders
Some of the common symptoms of psychotic disorders include:
- Hallucinations such as hearing voices or seeing things that don’t exist
- Delusions or false beliefs that aren’t based in reality
- Disorganised speech
- Slowed movement & reduced memory function
- Repeated movements or gestures
- Difficulty concentrating or lack of focus
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Common Causes of Psychotic Disorders
The exact causes of psychotic disorders are unknown, but the following factors are typically associated with an increased risk of developing psychotic disorders:
Genetics
Genetics or a family history of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia or delusional disorder.
Drugs
Consumption of drugs may contribute to the development of psychotic disorders.
Other Causes
Exposure to certain toxins or viruses may affect brain function. Brain deformities or abnormal changes in brain chemical levels could also increase the risk of developing psychotic disorders.
Negative Impact of Psychotic Disorders
If psychotic disorders are left undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to further complications such as:
- Poor work or school performance
- Severe impairment of daily functions
- Mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Abuse of alcohol or drugs
- Aggressive behaviour
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Your treatment Roadmap with Dr Tan
1
Registration
Our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you. Book your appointment today.
2
Detailed Consultation
Dr Tan will speak to you, assess your condition, and develop a personalised treatment plan, which may include therapy and/ or medication.
3
Follow-up Visits
Dr Tan will schedule follow up visits to check in with you and make adjustments to your personalised treatment plan if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a doctor?
You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms persist for an extended period of time and if they impede your daily functions to a great extent. However, most people with schizophrenia lack the awareness that their symptoms are caused by a mental health disorder which requires medical attention. As such, the responsibility typically lies to the friends or family of the patient to help them seek proper treatment.
Can psychotic disorders be fully cured?
Psychotic disorders typically involve lifelong treatment and care. As such, while medications and psychotherapy may be effective for the patient, they can only ease the symptoms and prevent the chances of a relapse. However, patients who strictly stick to their treatment plans can usually slowly regain their daily functioning.
Can psychotic disorders be prevented?
No. However, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the severity of the symptoms and ensure a positive recovery outlook.
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290 Orchard Road
#09-07 Paragon
Singapore 238859 -
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Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
