October 10, 2026

World Mental Health Day is observed annually on 10 October to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilise efforts to support mental well-being. This day serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young adults. In Singapore, concerns surrounding youth mental health have grown in prominence, with increasing recognition of the challenges young people face in accessing support.  

In ‘Young Adults, Mental Health, and Help-Seeking: What Difficulties Do They Face? A Singapore-Based Study’ (Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work and Development, 2024), Yun Ze Chua (NUS Social Work) and Associate Professor Jungup Lee (NUS Social Work) investigate the factors influencing mental health help-seeking behaviours among young adults in Singapore. Through an online self-administered questionnaire measuring attitudes toward mental health services, past experiences, stigma, self-reliance, and perceived accessibility, the researchers examine how these variables interact to either encourage or hinder help-seeking intentions.  

The study found that young adults who had previously sought professional help and had positive experiences were more likely to seek future assistance. This suggests that improving the quality of mental health services and ensuring positive user experiences could be pivotal in increasing help-seeking rates. Furthermore, attitudes toward mental health services played a vital role. Individuals with a more favourable perception of the effectiveness and accessibility of these services demonstrated a greater willingness to seek help. 

Notably, many young adults expressed a preference for handling their problems independently, viewing help-seeking as a sign of weakness. This cultural and psychological barrier significantly reduces the likelihood of seeking professional assistance. While self-reliance can be a strength, it can also become a limitation if it prevents people from accessing necessary support. The researchers advise mental health campaigns to reframe help-seeking as an act of self-awareness and resilience rather than dependency, challenging stigmatised perceptions. 

The research indicated that there is a need for targeted interventions to address stigma, improve accessibility to mental health services, and reshape societal attitudes toward mental health support. The authors emphasise the importance of a multi-faceted approach, involving policy changes, public awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives to foster a supportive environment for young adults facing mental health challenges. By understanding these barriers and facilitators, stakeholders can work toward creating a more inclusive and effective mental health system in Singapore. 

Read the article here.