THE DESIGN OF THE STUDY

A group of researchers from the Institute of Mental Health in Singapore decided to explore the current stigmatising beliefs about mental illness. These beliefs still exist throughout Singaporean society, and they often limit the availability of jobs and social connections for those with mental health conditions.

The study was a cross-sectional, community-based effort. Thanks to Singapore’s multiethnic culture, the researchers were able to draw information from people of different races and backgrounds. The study spanned 3,006 Singapore residents between the ages of 18 and 65. Each participant was living in Singapore at the time of the survey.

Essentially, the study was designed to gauge what percentage of people in Singapore have a continuum view of mental illness (more accepting and understanding) and what percentage still hold to a categorical approach (more fearful, exclusive, and stigmatising).

The results reveal that people are more likely to be understanding towards those with depression in Singapore than those with alcohol dependence or schizophrenia. Alcoholics and schizophrenics are likely to encounter significant levels of stereotyping, and people may want to keep them at a greater social distance.

The study also showed that people who know more about mental illness seem to be more gracious and more prone to the belief in a continuum of symptoms. As more information is made available to the population of Singapore, and as awareness spreads, the level of acceptance for mental illness should also increase.

News Feed from Adelphi Psych Medicine Clinic

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