South Korea’s Mental Health Crisis: A Growing Concern

By Abdul Rehman

South Korea, a nation recognized for its lively culture and technological progress, is experiencing an increasing mental health dilemma. According to Yonhap News Agency, the nation's suicide rate in 2022 was 25.2 deaths per 100,000 people, which is twice as high as the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) average, making it the highest among OECD member nations. This concerning pattern has led the authorities to respond by introducing a detailed strategy to address the problem.  

The proposal consists of providing mental health evaluations every two years for individuals in South Korea aged 20-34, with plans to eventually extend this service to all age ranges (The Korea Herald). This project strives to identify early warning signs and offer prompt interventions. In addition, the government plans to offer psychological counseling to 80,000 individuals next year, with a goal of reaching 1 million by 2027 (The Korea Herald). The significant challenge in South Korea is the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Numerous people endure silently, afraid of facing discrimination and bias (The Korea Times).  

To address this issue, the government intends to initiate a countrywide initiative to reduce stigma and raise awareness. Rotary International, a worldwide volunteer group, is also playing an active role in addressing mental health problems in South Korea (The Korea Times). They are involved in backing mental health institutions and starting initiatives to encourage community, mutual support, and self-care.  

South Korea's mental health crisis is driven by a variety of complex factors. Nevertheless, a number of critical elements play a role in this problem. The intense and demanding atmosphere of work, life, and family in South Korea greatly affects mental well-being due to competition and stress. Before the pandemic, young individuals, in particular, experienced significant stress, with a jobless rate three times greater than the country's average. Furthermore, there is a critical lack of housing in Seoul, which has worsened financial strain. Consequently, close to 40% of youths have ceased looking for employment, 

contributing to a pattern of financial hardships that exacerbate mental health problems. The rising levels of alcohol consumption in the nation also add to a tense societal atmosphere that undermines mental well-being. The combination of these factors forms an ideal situation highlighting the necessity of immediate focus on mental health in South Korea.(Harvard International Review)  

The government's strategy includes creating a shared emergency response center, evaluating judicial hospitalization, and enhancing regional medical centers for emergencies (The Korea Herald). These measures are designed to offer quick emergency assistance and guarantee appropriate care for individuals facing mental health challenges.  

In summary, South Korea must address its mental health crisis promptly with action. The government's thorough strategy is a positive move forward, yet additional action is required to tackle the underlying issues of this problem. By collaborating, we can form a community where mental health is prioritized and individuals can seek help without the fear of stigma.  

Sources: 

- Yonhap News Agency: "Gov't unveils comprehensive plan to tackle mental health crisis" 

- The Korea Herald: "South Korea unveils plan to tackle ailing mental health" 

- The Korea Times: "Korea requires all students to receive suicide prevention education" 

- The Korea Times: "Rotary International tackles mental health issues in Korea" 

- Harvard International Review: "The Struggle of Mental Health Care Delivery in South Korea and Singapore"