Despite progress last year, mental health receives little attention in Budget 2023, leaving many concerned.
SINGAPORE — The mention of mental health in last year’s Budget debates was a historic milestone. However, it remains just that—a milestone. Despite the progress made, mental health took a backseat in Budget 2023. When Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong delivered his Budget speech on February 14, it became clear that mental health was hardly a focal point.
The speech, delivered on Valentine’s Day, focused heavily on support for families and young couples. With the doubling of paid paternity leave, better housing support, and increased Baby Bonus, it seemed as though DPM Wong’s love letter was aimed squarely at Singapore’s young, married couples—leaving singles, as well as mental health concerns, largely sidelined.
Where’s That Mental Health Office?
Last year, there was hope that Singapore might take more significant steps toward addressing mental health. Following the formation of the Covid-19 Mental Wellness Taskforce in 2020, and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s public commitment to ensuring access to mental healthcare, expectations were high for continued progress. Yet, this year, there was no mention of concrete plans, like the proposed national mental health office, which many had anticipated would be created after discussions in 2022.
Senior Minister of State for Health, Dr. Janil Puthucheary, had confirmed that the interagency task force was working on this initiative, but there’s still no substantial update. Advocates in the mental health sector are concerned that the urgency they feel is not being mirrored in government action, as high demand for mental health services and funding shortages persist.
The Case for More Mental Health Resources
Mental health challenges are widespread in Singapore, exacerbated by the pandemic, economic stress, and a general sense of disillusionment. The Institute of Mental Health has reported a rise in demand for its services, and a significant proportion of young adults, particularly those aged 18 to 29, are struggling. The National Population Health Survey from 2021 highlighted that 21.5% of young adults suffer from poor mental health.
Elderly citizens, facing social isolation and health concerns, are also particularly vulnerable. Of the 378 suicides reported in 2021, 112 were individuals aged 60 and above. Given Singapore’s rapidly aging population, the issue of elderly mental health must not be ignored.
Working On Ourselves
This year’s Budget, with its focus on families and financial support, feels disconnected from the reality many Singaporeans face, particularly when it comes to mental health. As a young person approaching 29, I find myself questioning whether having children is the right choice, especially when mental well-being is so often overlooked. It’s easy to understand why those grappling with mental health issues might feel hesitant about starting a family.
Mental health cannot be sidelined when discussing major life choices like parenthood. Financial benefits, grants, and leave are important, but they won’t be enough to ensure families are mentally and emotionally equipped to handle the challenges of raising children.
As Dr. Shahira Abdulla aptly put it, “mental health issues permeate all ministries.” Addressing mental health should be central to all policy decisions, not a side note. While progress has been made in raising awareness, there is much more to be done to ensure that mental health is integrated into the broader conversation about the future of Singapore.
Ultimately, if Singapore aims to create a future for families, it must first create a country that supports the mental health and well-being of all its citizens.
