Mind Matters: Korea’s Bold Plan to Improve Mental Health
Date Jul 29, 2024
A promotional video for Korea’s National Mental Health Investment Support Program (Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Health and Welfare)
Suicide is a critical public health crisis in Korea as it’s now a leading cause of death, especially among the young. This alarming trend must be tackled through urgent and effective interventions. According to National Police Agency statistics from 2022, mental and psychiatric problems accounted for 39.4 percent of suicides, followed by economic problems at 22.5 percent and physical illness at 17.6 percent.
The stigma that still surrounds mental health problems in Korea often prevents people from seeking help and has exacerbated the suicide crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic also worsened the situation by triggering a significant increase in depression, especially among adolescents. Isolation, uncertainty and life disruptions have left many young people struggling with mental health issues, underscoring the need for comprehensive support systems and destigmatization efforts.
Economic hardship and chronic illness are also contributing markedly to rising suicide rates. Financial instability, unemployment and mounting debts put immense pressure on individuals, sometimes forcing them to see suicide as the only way out. The economic impact of the pandemic put a strain on many households. And for some people, the burden of dealing with long-term health problems has led to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Due to these sorts of challenges, it’s necessary to tackle Korea’s suicide crisis through holistic interventions involving mental health assistance, economic support and access to healthcare.
The government’s National Mental Health Investment Support Program offers professional psychological counseling services to people experiencing emotional difficulties such as depression and anxiety. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
The Korean government has launched the National Mental Health Investment Support Program to address mental health struggles among Koreans and lower the suicide rate. This comprehensive initiative, which began on July 1, aims to provide mental health support to 1 million people of all age groups by 2027.
Within 10 days of enrollment, participants receive a voucher that provides access to eight face-to-face professional counseling sessions of at least 50 minutes each. Participants have to make a co-payment of up to 30 percent, depending on their income level, while young people who are not yet living independently and children in extended care are exempt from payment. By expanding access to mental health services, the government aims to engage with the root causes of depression and prevent suicides.
In addition, the Youth Mental Health Support Program, which initially focused on young people, has now been incorporated into the broader National Mental Health Investment Support Program. This expansion reflects the government’s recognition of the urgent need to deal with mental health issues among all age groups, not just among the young. The program provides targeted support for young people, including counseling and therapy services, to help them navigate the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood.
The rising depression and suicide rates in Korea must be tackled through immediate and sustained action. The government’s efforts to expand mental health support through initiatives such as the National Mental Health Investment Support Program are steps in the right direction. However, addressing this crisis will require a multifaceted approach that includes reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, improving economic conditions and providing robust support for those dealing with physical illnesses.
By taking on these issues comprehensively, Korea can hope to reduce its suicide rate and improve its citizens’ overall mental health. The road ahead will require sustained effort, but with continued investment and commitment, a healthier, more resilient society is within reach.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism's "Korea Here & Now" work can be used under the condition of "Public Nuri Type 1 (Source Indication)."