Singapore: Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong declared an unequivocal commitment to prioritize mental health and well-being on the national agenda. This declaration, made earlier this month, marks a significant stride towards addressing mental health challenges and fostering positive societal attitudes. A two-day parliamentary debate on the Advancing Mental Health motion further underscored the government’s dedication to this cause.
The advocate and community organizer, reflecting on a personal experience with depression in 2006, expressed emotional resonance with the government’s commitment. The impassioned plea made during the 2019 Budget speech for a national mental health office finds fulfillment in Wong’s recent proclamation.
Investment in Mental Health: A Global Perspective
Globally, mental health receives a modest share of government health budgets, averaging just over 2% in 2020, according to the World Health Organization Mental Health Atlas. Singapore aligns with this trend, allocating 3% of its health expenditure to mental health in 2022. However, the distribution reveals an imbalance, with only 3% allocated for promotion and prevention, emphasizing the need for a more even investment distribution.
National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy: A Paradigm Shift
The recently launched National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy signals a paradigm shift, recognizing mental health as a continuum rather than solely the absence of illnesses. The strategy introduces a tiered care model, multiple touchpoints, and specific goals for implementation by 2030, emphasizing accessibility and a holistic approach.
However, questions arise about the sufficiency of the projected increase in mental health professionals by 2030. With targets of 260 psychiatrists and 300 psychologists, Singapore lags behind international benchmarks. The strategy’s success hinges on coordinated efforts and resources, with concerns about the adequacy of Community Outreach Teams for youths.
Success Metrics and National Mental Health Office Oversight
While the strategy outlines actions to improve Singapore’s mental health ecosystem, explicit outcome targets remain undefined. Calls for reducing waiting times, preventing suicides, and addressing stress-related illnesses underscore the need for clear success metrics. The promise of a National Mental Health Office by 2025, overseeing strategy implementation and progress tracking, aims to provide a cohesive and aligned approach.
The economic ties to mental health are evident, with anxiety and depression costing Singapore’s economy S$15.7 billion annually. The advocate urges a paradigm shift towards celebrating “gross well-being progress (GWP)” alongside GDP. Embracing mental well-being as a life goal and a growth imperative, the advocate envisions a future where Singapore thrives both economically and emotionally.