Despite facing anxiety or depression, about four in five adults in Singapore do not turn to mental health professionals for help. However, a new Duke-NUS study reveals many are willing to receive support from peers, suggesting a valuable role for informal community care.
- 77% of adults with anxiety or depression haven’t sought professional help
- Privacy concerns and stigma remain major barriers
- Peer support offers a promising complement to formal care
What happened
A comprehensive survey conducted by Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore revealed that nearly four in five adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression have not accessed mental health professionals. The research collected data from 350 adults as part of a study on the broader economic impact of mental health conditions. This significant treatment gap highlights ongoing challenges in mental health care access within the Singaporean population.
Researchers identified several reasons for this reluctance, including fears about privacy and confidentiality. Individuals worry that disclosing their mental health struggles could invite stigma or negatively affect their jobs. This cultural barrier, especially prevalent in Asian societies, prevents many from seeking vital professional support despite needing it.
Why it feels good
The study also found encouraging signs that many adults are open to receiving informal support from peers. Younger adults, in particular, showed greater willingness to engage in peer-based care, reflecting a shift toward destigmatizing mental health conversations among newer generations. Those who have previously sought professional help were also more receptive to community support, suggesting a complementary relationship between formal and informal care.
Peer support networks often emerge naturally through everyday interactions, such as casual conversations at work or social settings. Trained peer supporters help create trusted spaces where individuals can share without fear of judgment, fostering community care that respects privacy and emotional safety. This natural and empathetic approach can supplement professional services and potentially lower barriers to mental wellness.
What to enjoy or watch next
Building on these findings, there is an opportunity for mental health programs in Singapore to expand community-based and peer support initiatives. Enhancing awareness and training for peer supporters can strengthen early intervention and promote a culture of acceptance around mental health. Employers may also play a pivotal role by encouraging open conversations in the workplace to reduce stigma and support employees.
For those interested in mental health advocacy or support networks, following local peer support systems like the National University of Singapore’s program offers insight into how communities can mobilize to care for one another. Watching how these informal care models develop alongside professional treatment could provide a hopeful roadmap for improving mental health outcomes in Singapore and beyond.