Improving Public Recognition of Mental Health Conditions

Dr Wan Rizal asked the Minister for Health what measures are being taken to improve public recognition of mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and schizophrenia which, based on a recent study by the Institute of Mental Health, remain less recognised by the respondents of the study despite overall improvements in mental health literacy.

My response will also cover the matters raised in the written questions by Dr Wan Rizal for today's Sitting. [Please refer to "Reducing Stigma Towards Individuals with Mental Health Conditions", Official Report, 7 January 2025, Vol 95, Issue 148, Written Answers to Questions section.]

Mental health literacy plays a pivotal role in addressing public misconceptions and false perceptions about mental health, which cause stigma. Singapore has made significant progress in raising awareness through initiatives, such as the Health Promotion Board's (HPB's) "Supporters who Listen, Support Better" campaign and the National Council of Social Service's (NCSS') "Beyond the Label" (BTL) campaign, which features stories on the lived experience of individuals with mental health conditions, such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia. These campaigns are complemented by educational resources available on platforms, like Mindline.sg, as well as public education and outreach efforts by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) and HPB. AIC also trains frontline personnel and community partners to recognise and support people with common mental health conditions.

Community-level support for vulnerable groups, such as older adults and individuals with lower education levels, are provided through the Well-being Circles, Community Outreach Teams and Community Intervention Teams. Seniors, in particular, benefit from targeted outreach by Silver Generation Ambassadors and offline support through CareLine, a 24/7 social support hotline.

These collective efforts have improved public awareness and recognition of common mental health conditions, as shown in the Mind Matters study conducted from 2022 to 2023. Even OCD, a condition not so well understood, has become more recognisable. In addition, the 2021 survey by NCSS reported improved public attitudes toward individuals with mental health conditions compared to the initial study in 2017.

We will continue to strengthen our ongoing efforts as part of the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy and explore more targeted approaches to address stigma affecting specific populations, for example, with the BTL campaign promoting inclusive workplaces and employment support.