SINGAPORE

Recent findings from a comprehensive study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) reveal a significant increase in awareness of mental health conditions among Singaporeans, with nearly 60% now able to identify common disorders. This surge in understanding is accompanied by a notable decrease in stigma surrounding mental health issues.

The study, unveiled on November 19 at a mental health conference held at One Farrer Hotel, highlighted that conditions such as dementia, depression, and schizophrenia are now more recognized by the public. These results mark a substantial improvement compared to the first iteration of the research carried out between 2014 and 2015.

The latest “Mind Matters” survey, which surveyed 4,195 Singapore citizens and permanent residents aged 18 to 67, noted that 58.9% of respondents could identify five common mental health conditions, a stark increase from 42.3% in the initial study. With the inclusion of two new categories—gambling disorder and depression with suicidality—recognition rose further, with 63.3% acknowledging seven prevalent mental health issues.

Professor Chong Siow Ann, the study's principal investigator, expressed optimism: “The increase in awareness can be attributed to various mental health initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy in Singapore. We are encouraged to see these results moving in a positive direction.”

The top three identified conditions were dementia (83%), gambling disorder (77.1%), and depression with suicidality (72.1%). However, issues of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia remain less recognized, with only 62.3% and 15.1% desiring acknowledgment, respectively. Remarkably, awareness of OCD has improved dramatically from 28.7% in the first study, indicating the impact of media coverage and its prevalence in Singapore—affecting one in 28 adults at some point in their lives.

In contrast, schizophrenia, which has a lower prevalence (one in 116 people), has not been a focal point for awareness campaigns, resulting in slower recognition improvement. Efforts by organizations like Silver Ribbon (Singapore) are underway to combat misunderstandings that link schizophrenia symptoms, such as hallucinations, to spirituality.

The study also delved into stigma, examining perceptions of individuals with mental health conditions as potentially dangerous or personally weak. Encouragingly, stigma scores decreased overall, reflecting a shift toward greater empathy and understanding. However, the stigma associated with gambling and alcohol abuse remains challenging, as these are often perceived as personal weaknesses rather than valid medical conditions.

Prof. Mythily Subramaniam, co-investigator of the study, pointed out that societal narratives about addiction could benefit from a more compassionate approach, recognizing the complex interplay of genetics, trauma, and behavioral health in these issues.

The growing awareness in Singapore highlights the importance of continued education and support for individuals facing mental health challenges, emphasizing the need for a public health approach that fosters understanding and promotes early intervention.

As Singapore continues to evolve in its approach to mental health, these survey results represent a hopeful step towards a more inclusive society, where individuals are empowered to seek help without the fear of stigma or judgment.