Chongqing, a municipality in southwestern China with a population exceeding 32 million, is set to establish mental health service centers in all universities and 95 percent of middle and primary schools by 2025, according to a recently announced government plan. This initiative is part of the city’s comprehensive three-year strategy to address the mental well-being of its residents.
The move comes in response to a growing concern over the mental health of Chinese students, who face substantial academic pressure, high parental expectations, and intense competition among peers. The plan outlines Chongqing’s commitment to constructing a comprehensive mental health service system that leverages the collaboration of government departments, society, and families.
By 2025, every district and county within the city will house mental health service centers, with a target of six psychiatric physicians for every 100,000 permanent residents. Additionally, Chongqing aims to establish a psychological crisis intervention working mechanism for emergencies and introduce a dedicated hotline offering round-the-clock psychological counseling services.
Yang Fahui, Director of the Mental Health Research and Training Center at Southwest University, emphasized the Chinese government’s decade-long focus on public mental health due to the escalating pressures in the rapidly developing society. Notably, the World Health Organization estimates that 54 million people in China experience depression, with around 41 million grappling with anxiety disorders. The prevalence of depression among Chinese teenagers has reached 15 to 20 percent, similar to that of adults, as per the 2022 National Depression Blue Book.
China initiated its first mental health law in 2012, emphasizing the need for more facilities, increased mental health professionals, and heightened awareness. In April, the education ministry, along with 17 other departments, issued an action plan to enhance students’ mental health.
While acknowledging the progress made in urban schools and families, Yang highlighted the urgency of addressing mental health concerns in rural areas. He pointed out the need for more professional mental health workers, standardized treatment guides for school mental service centers, and a regional supervision system as crucial aspects requiring attention.