“Survey Reveals Mental Health as Top Societal Concern Among Singaporeans in 2023 “

SINGAPORE: Mental health emerged as the top societal concern for Singaporeans in 2023, especially among younger age groups, according to a survey by Milieu Insight. This annual survey, which gathered responses from 1,028 Singaporeans aged 16 and above, identified mental health (67%) as the leading issue, followed closely by support for low-income or vulnerable groups (65%) and health-related concerns (67%). Environmental and sustainability issues ranked next at 52%.

For respondents aged 16 to 44, mental health was the top issue, while those 45 to 54 placed it second, after concern for vulnerable groups. Older Singaporeans aged 55 and above, however, prioritized health and diseases, with 78% listing it as their primary concern.

The survey highlighted increased awareness around mental health following a significant rise in suicide rates, reaching a two-decade high of 476 cases in 2022. Among the youngest respondents, 77% reported actively engaging with mental health topics, with over 64% of all participants making efforts to better understand the mental well-being of their loved ones as well as their own.

In addition to mental health, the survey found Singaporeans taking concrete steps to support vulnerable groups: 25% of respondents contributed donations, while 18% volunteered. Milieu Insight noted that these actions helped bolster initiatives like ComLink+, a scheme designed to aid approximately 14,000 low-income families with essential services and stability.

“Singaporeans from all walks of life are actively engaging with these pressing social issues, whether through donations, volunteering, or personal actions,” said Milieu Insight. “This collective effort offers hope for a more inclusive future as we face the challenges and opportunities of 2024 and beyond.”