Seeking help is a sign of strength, says Ong Ye Kung as Singapore steps up mental health support
In light of World Mental Health Day on Saturday (Oct 10), Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung has a message for Singaporeans — seeking help is not something to fear, but a sign of strength. Noting the rise of mental health challenges globally, particularly in young people, the minister shared that hospitals and specialist clinics are seeing more patients, including many who are still in school. Community mental health services are also supporting more people, with the number of youths receiving help more than doubling. The national mindline 1771, meanwhile, handles around 9,000 calls for help every month, he revealed. Statistics released by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in July also showed growing concerns over suicide deaths among adults, especially those in their 30s. According to the data, suicide deaths among those aged 30 to 39 rose by 50 per cent in 2024 and is the second leading cause of death among adults of the age group.