Global Solutions :
solutions and programs from around the world
Singapore
Despite increased concern due to Covid pandemic and more isolation and loneliness, Singapore has successfully combated the mental health epidemic. Suicide rates have fallen or stayed very low for the past 20 years and about five percent having depression which is a fourth of the rate in the United States. The government has been key to this change by promoting programs and creating mental health as a pillar of Singapore. This in itself reduces stigma and allows mental health to be a normalized part of society. Singapore has invested over 13 million dollars into reducing stigmas surrounding mental health. The government has also partnered with companies to provide mental health service and create workplaces which promote healthy mental health practices, the Singaporean mental health care system has also been changed allowing for higher up lots of care and a greater level of accessibility.
Denmark
A government initiative called One of Us helps to reduce stigma and raise awareness by sharing stories and experiences of mental health issues, focusing on understanding, commonality and recovery. This program seeks to use social contact to reduce stigma rather than its education as education isn't always the most effective way. Meeting with people also helps those suffering with mental health issues as it allows them to share their experiences and help in their recovery. This decrease in stigma also benefits health care as professionals can more easily connect with patients and provide the care they need, with a better understanding of what they need and how to work with them.
Canada
The Canadian guide is a MHL program designed to educate students and teachers on mental health literacy. It was developed to increase awareness and act as a foundation for improved mental health care for youth, the guide contains a teacher assessment tool and self study modules. The main focuses are stigma, understanding mental health, understanding mental disorder, experience of mental illness, seeing help and support, and importance of good mental health. Even just a few days of training has significantly improved teachers' understanding and care in the classroom.