Average of 49,800 Residents Treated Annually
On Tuesday (Nov 2), Rahayu Mahzam, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Health (MOH), revealed that an average of 49,800 Singapore residents annually sought treatment for mental health issues between 2016 and 2019. This statistic encompasses treatments received in public and private hospitals, polyclinics, and general practitioner clinics. Data for 2020 was not yet available at the time of her statement, responding to inquiries from MP Faisal Manap (WP-Aljunied) about mental health treatment numbers, including specifics on depression and anxiety.
The annual average for individuals treated for depression and anxiety was approximately 33,700 and 34,000, respectively, although these figures include repeat visits and are not unique counts. Demographically, around 60% of these patients were under 60 years old, 70% were Chinese, and 30% resided in three-room or smaller public housing. Information on patients’ education levels was not provided.
Ms. Mahzam referenced the 2016 Singapore Mental Health Study (SMHS), which linked unemployment and marital status (divorced or separated) with depression. The study also suggested stress as a potential risk factor for anxiety disorders, noting that nearly half of those with depression or anxiety also had a chronic physical illness.
Suicide Statistics and Demographics
Addressing suicide rates, Ms. Mahzam noted that younger individuals (19 years and below) commit fewer suicides, while the elderly (60 years and above) are more represented in suicide statistics. The 2020 report from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) showed an increase in suicides to 452 from 400 in 2019, with 320 males and 132 females among the cases.
Racially, Malays are underrepresented in suicide statistics, while Indians are overrepresented. No detailed breakdown was available regarding education or economic background. Ms. Mahzam highlighted that suicide is often influenced by a combination of factors including relationship issues, family dynamics, social pressures, financial difficulties, and mental and physical health conditions.
