Mental Health Suicide Rates Community-Based Approaches Mental Health Literacy
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 3: Good Health & Well Being – The case study focuses on identifying issues that are creating mental health issues in South Korea and what can be done to address them. This aligns with SDG 3 as it intends to acknowledge the mental state and well being of South Korean citizens and it can be improved.
Description
This study delves into the escalating mental health challenges in South Korea, specifically focusing on schizophrenia patients and rising suicide rates among young adults. The case study found that despite an overall increase in mental health service expenditure, only 20% of diagnosed individuals seek professional help, prompting the need for enhanced educational services. The Mental Health Act of 2016 aims to curb involuntary admissions, signaling government efforts, but a shift towards shift community-based approaches is emphasized for a holistic solution. Additionally, concerning suicide rates, factors such as sleep duration and alcohol consumption impact depression, with income level identified as a significant contributor to suicidal ideation. The research underscores the imperative for policy interventions targeting income-related factors, such as access to opportunities and education, to mitigate the mental health crisis in South Korea. This aligns with SDG 3, focusing on promoting mental health and well-being.
Lessons Learned
This research on mental health challenges in South Korea offers crucial insights for addressing the crisis. Emphasizing cultural sensitivity and mental health literacy is vital, acknowledging the role of cultural values and societal patterns. The study advocates for a holistic approach, leveraging cultural heritage as an asset for promoting mental health rather than attempting to change or commodify it. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of preserving cultural freedom to create a positive and safe environment. Improved access to mental health resources, coupled with community-based interventions, is crucial. The findings highlight the significance of policy measures targeting income-related factors to mitigate suicidal ideation. Overall, the case study provides actionable strategies for policymakers, mental health practitioners, and communities to foster sustainable mental health development in South Korea.
Case Study Evaluation using Project Evaluation Tool
Exemplary (given from an average score of 3.7 across the 7 values of worthwhile development)
Well-Being
Score: 3/5
South Korea’s mental health initiative expanded individualized hospital services, but societal reluctance to seek help remains a barrier, despite improvements in infrastructure and expenditure.
Equality
Score: 3/5
The initiative, scoring 3/5, improves mental health infrastructure and policy implementation in South Korea, but calls for further efforts to ensure equal access and outcomes for all individuals.
Human Rights
Score: 4/5
South Korea’s mental health research, focusing on individualized hospital services and community-based approaches, has been rated 4/5 for its commitment to human rights.
Cultural Freedom
Score: 4/5
Encouraging policies that align with community-based values can strengthen community ties and promote cultural freedom.
Agency and Empowerment
Score: 4/5
The Mental Health Act in 2016 promotes cultural sensitivity and agency, empowering individuals to actively engage in mental health care, despite challenges like societal reluctance.
Responsibility
Score: 5/5
South Korea’s Mental Health Act, introduced in 2016, demonstrates a commitment to addressing the mental health crisis, earning a score of 4/5 in mental health research.
Sustainability
Score: 3/5
South Korea’s community-based mental health research, focusing on infrastructure development and tourism improvement, earns a 3/5 sustainability score, despite room for expansion in addressing comprehensive sustainable development.
