Institute of Mental Health, hospital in Singapore
The Institute of Mental Health is a hospital in Hougang specializing in mental health care with multiple wards and facilities. It operates over 50 wards with more than 2,000 beds and provides outpatient clinics, therapy spaces, and group session areas alongside inpatient services.
The hospital was founded in 1841 as the Insane Hospital with just 30 beds and grew significantly over decades. After being renamed Woodbridge Hospital in 1951, it relocated to its current Hougang location in 1993, transforming into a modern facility with international recognition.
The name reflects a historic wooden bridge that once stood nearby, connecting the institute to local identity. Visitors experience a culture of patience and respect here, where families and friends actively participate in supporting their loved ones.
Visitors should check visiting hours in advance and arrive a little early to allow time for procedures. Parking is usually available nearby, and staff are on hand to answer questions about navigating the hospital.
The site was officially designated a Singapore heritage site in 2006 for its significant role in developing mental health care in the country. Several buildings on the grounds date from different decades, reflecting the architectural history of medical care evolution.
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