Research has shown that on average, one in seven people (14.2%) in Singapore have experienced mental disorders, with the top three disorders being major depressive disorder, alcohol abuse and obsessive-compulsive disorder. (Quoted from an article published in City of Good).

There are many negative impacts of poor mental health including: –

• Frequent tiredness and burnouts in individuals.
• Problems sleeping and constant low energy levels.
• Isolation and lack of social interaction.
• Feelings of hopelessness and being demoralised.

These negative impacts also affect organisations and the economy, resulting in: –

• Lower levels of productivity.
• Lower morale.
• Increased sick days and absenteeism rates.
• Increased turnover of staff.
• Increased risk of financial loss.
• Increased utilisation of Healthcare and Social Service Systems.

According to the Lancet Commission report on Global Mental Health and Sustainable Development by 28 global specialists in psychiatry, public health, neuroscience, and advocacy groups  as well as mental health stated that mental health disorders are on the rise in every country in the world and could cost the global economy up to US$16 trillion (S$22 trillion) by 2030, if a collective failure to respond is not addressed. This growing crisis could cause lasting harm to people, communities and economies worldwide. The economic cost is primarily due to long-term disease burden of mental illness and lost productivity of approximately 12 billion working days each year. (Quoted from an article published in the Straits Times). 

Mental health is a major priority for both national and international health organisations. Many nations across the globe have started programmes or developed initiatives to combat this health concern, with Singapore planning to raise awareness and build a better system to better aid its people.

The Leadership Summit 2022 on Mental Health held on 10 October 2022 reflected on the importance of Mental Health and Wellness in Singapore, how organisations are affected and how to approach Mental Health in a workplace moving forward.

In his opening speech, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Health, Dr Janil Puthucheary spoke about the efforts put forward to raise mental health literacy in the community, working towards dispelling the stigma surrounding mental health issues, as well as developing better understanding and better mental health support. He quoted some examples of public education campaigns that various agencies had organised to raise awareness for mental health and support destigmatisation efforts which include the “it’s OKAY to reach out”  campaign by the Health Promotion Board, and the “Beyond The Label” campaign by the National Council of Social Service. 

He also aptly stated that “There is no health without mental health.”