Three in ten S’pore adults say stigmas around mental illnesses are declining

A majority also think it is important for people to talk about mental health

The Singapore Mental Health Study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health between 2016 and 2018 found that one in seven people experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime. Latest data from YouGov Profiles hints at changing perceptions towards the issue, with just over three in ten Singapore residents agreed that stigmas surrounding mental illnesses are declining (35%).

In particular, younger generations were most likely to say mental health is becoming less stigmatised, with over two in five agreeing (46% for 18-24; 44% for 25-34).

A majority also think it is important for people to talk about mental health (78%), with younger generations again most likely to agree (85% for 18-24; 80% for 25-34).

At the same time, additional data from YouGov Profiles reveals that some do still trivialise such disorders, with one in six Singapore residents thinking that mental illnesses are not real illnesses (17%).

Notably, those aged 25-34 (19%) and 35-44 (18%) were most likely to agree, with close to one in five saying mental health illnesses are not real illnesses. Conversely, young adults aged 18-24 were most likely to oppose the statement (74%).

Methodology:

YouGov Profiles is based on continuously collected data and rolling surveys, rather than from a single limited questionnaire. Profiles data for Singapore is nationally representative and weighted by age, gender, and race. Learn more about Profiles.