Hoarding in Singapore.

Hoarding refers to an excessive acquisition of objects and inability to part with apparently valueless possessions. While it can lead to excessive clutter, distress and disability, it is important to note that not all cases of hoarding are pathological. This article aims to suggest how one can make recommendations to patients and families when they encounter someone exhibiting hoarding behaviour. It also introduces the Hoarding Task Force and relevant legislation in Singapore to address the issue of hoarding in the community.

Unfair employment discrimination of previously depressed individuals.

Individuals who have recovered from or are in a remissive state of depression are often required to declare their psychiatric history during applications for employment. This practice exposes such individuals to discrimination even though they are no longer afflicted by the condition, leading to the question whether the practice is fair and justified. Such discrimination can also have adverse health implications as individuals with active depression might not want to seek help early for fear of stigmatisation. In this article, constructive dialogue among relevant stakeholders is proposed to encourage appropriate and measured responses to this problem. A more durable solution in Singapore may be to introduce legislation to prevent unfair discrimination.