What is the estimated prevalence of mental disorders among adults in the People's Republic of China?

Experts estimate that approximately 130 million adults in the People's Republic of China suffer from a mental disorder. This significant number highlights a substantial public health challenge within the country.

What are the primary barriers preventing individuals in China from seeking mental health treatment?

The desire to seek treatment for mental health issues in China is significantly hindered by strict social norms, which contribute to stigma surrounding mental illness. Additionally, religious and cultural beliefs that emphasize personal reputation and social harmony can discourage individuals from seeking help.

When were the first mental institutions introduced in Mainland China, and by whom?

The first mental institutions in Mainland China were introduced before 1849 by Western missionaries. These early institutions marked the beginning of formal psychiatric care in the region.

Who was John G. Kerr, and what significant contribution did he make to mental health care in China?

John G. Kerr was a missionary and doctor who opened the first psychiatric hospital in China in 1898. His goal was to provide more humane care and treatment for individuals experiencing mental health issues.

How did China's mental health resources develop after 1949, and what event disrupted this progress?

Following 1949, China began developing its mental health resources by establishing psychiatric hospitals and facilities for training professionals. However, many community programs were discontinued during the Cultural Revolution, disrupting this development.

What commitment did the Chinese government make in a 1999 meeting with the World Health Organization regarding mental health?

In a 1999 meeting with the World Health Organization, the Chinese government committed to developing a mental health action plan and a national mental health law, among other measures aimed at expanding and improving mental health care services.

What were the main objectives outlined in China's mental health action plan adopted in 2002?

The mental health action plan adopted in 2002 outlined China's priorities, which included enacting legislation related to mental health, educating the public about mental illness and available resources, and developing a stable and comprehensive system for mental health care.

What is the purpose of the government's 686 Program, initiated in 2006?

The government's 686 Program, initiated in 2006, aims to redevelop community mental health programs. The goal is to make these community-based services the primary resource for individuals with mental illnesses, shifting the focus away from solely relying on psychiatric hospitals. The program also emphasizes rehabilitation over symptom management.

What key patient rights were introduced in China's mental health law adopted in 2012?

The Mental Health Law adopted in 2012 introduced significant patient rights, including the right not to be hospitalized against one's will in most cases. It also promotes transparency in patient treatment management and stipulates that only a qualified psychiatrist can determine a mental illness, with compulsory inpatient treatment reserved for individuals posing a clear risk to themselves or others.

What criticisms has Human Rights Watch raised regarding China's 2012 Mental Health Law?

Human Rights Watch has criticized the 2012 Mental Health Law, noting that while it allows detained patients to seek a second opinion, it lacks provisions for a legal hearing, such as a mental health tribunal, and does not guarantee legal representation for patients.

How has the World Health Organization (WHO) collaborated with China on mental health information systems?

Since 1993, the WHO has been collaborating with China to develop a national mental health information system. This collaboration aims to improve data collection and management related to mental health services and outcomes in the country.

Despite ongoing development, what challenges persist in China's mental health services?

Despite continuous development, China still faces challenges with a large number of untreated and undiagnosed individuals with mental illnesses. Factors contributing to this disparity include intense stigma, a shortage of mental health professionals, and culturally specific ways in which mental illness is expressed.

What was the estimated prevalence of mood, anxiety, and alcohol use disorders in China based on a 2001-2005 survey?

A survey conducted between 2001 and 2005 among 63,000 Chinese adults found that 16% of the population had a mood disorder (including 6% with major depressive disorder), 13% had an anxiety disorder, and 9% had an alcohol use disorder. This survey provided crucial data on the prevalence of common mental health conditions.

What demographic differences were observed in the prevalence of mood, anxiety, and alcohol use disorders in the 2001-2005 survey?

The survey indicated that women were more likely than men to experience mood or anxiety disorders. Conversely, men were significantly more likely to have an alcohol use disorder. Additionally, individuals residing in rural areas showed a higher prevalence of major depressive disorder and alcohol dependence compared to those in urban settings.

What was the estimated suicide rate in China between 1995 and 1999, and how has it changed?

The suicide rate in China was approximately 23 per 100,000 people between 1995 and 1999. Government data suggests this rate has since fallen to roughly 7 per 100,000 people, indicating a significant decrease.

How does the suicide rate in rural areas compare to urban areas in China, and what is the most common method?

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the suicide rate is three to four times higher in rural areas than in urban areas of China. Pesticide poisoning is the most common method, accounting for 62% of suicide incidents.

How do cultural and folk beliefs in China contribute to the stigma surrounding mental illness?

Many Chinese cultural and folk beliefs, including those influenced by Buddhism and Taoism, emphasize moral conduct and social harmony. Illness is sometimes perceived as a consequence of moral failure or disrespect to family, leading individuals to avoid seeking help due to shame and the potential for social isolation for themselves and their families.

In what ways does the emphasis on reputation impact mental health help-seeking behavior in China?

The high value placed on maintaining a good family reputation can deter individuals from seeking professional mental health help. Mental health issues are often viewed as an unacceptable weakness that could bring shame upon the family, leading individuals to internalize their problems, potentially worsening them and making treatment difficult.

How does the philosophical concept of accepting one's fate influence attitudes towards mental health treatment in China?

Some Chinese philosophies teach followers to accept their fate. This can lead individuals with mental disorders to be less inclined to actively seek medical treatment, believing they should not interfere with their perceived destiny. It may also make them more likely to accept societal stereotypes and ostracism.

What is the ratio of licensed psychiatrists per capita in China compared to developed countries?

As of the end of 2019, China had approximately 2.9 licensed psychiatrists per 100,000 population. This is considerably lower than the average of 6.6 psychiatrists per 100,000 in developed countries, indicating a significant shortage of qualified professionals.

Why do very few medical graduates in China choose to specialize in psychiatry?

Few medical graduates opt for psychiatry specialization due to several factors, including limited knowledge about the field, low salaries, heavy workloads, and the persistent stigma associated with mental illness. These challenges make the profession less attractive compared to other medical specialties.

What is the reported prevalence of physical symptoms among Chinese patients with mental illness compared to Western patients?

Multiple studies indicate that Chinese patients with mental illness tend to report more physical symptoms, such as fatigue and muscle aches, whereas Western patients are more likely to report psychological symptoms. It remains unclear whether this difference is due to cultural comfort levels in reporting symptoms or if mental illnesses manifest differently across cultures.

What accusations have been made regarding the use of China's psychiatric facilities?

There have been multiple accusations that China's psychiatric facilities have been misused by government officials to detain political dissidents. This raises concerns about the potential for involuntary commitment to be used for non-medical purposes.

How did the criteria for involuntary psychiatric admission change with China's Mental Health Law in May 2013?

Prior to May 2013, involuntary admission was common for patients with psychotic disorders and required only family consent. The reformed law stipulates that involuntary admission is only permissible if the patient poses a clear threat to themselves or others, as determined by a registered psychiatrist. However, a 2017 survey indicated that fewer than 50% of involuntarily admitted individuals met these criteria, suggesting the practice remains high.

What is the current focus regarding military mental health in China?

Military mental health has recently become an area of focus and improvement in China, with the government investing in research to understand the mental health needs of military personnel and developing policies to support these findings. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of psychological well-being in the armed forces.

When did research on the mental health of Chinese military personnel begin, and what was its initial focus?

Research into the mental health of active Chinese military men began in the 1980s. The initial focus was on investigating soldiers' experiences in high-altitude plateau environments, which presented unique physical and psychological challenges.

How has the focus of research in China's dominant military academic journals shifted regarding soldier health?

In the 1980s, research in dominant military academic journals primarily focused on soldiers' physical health. As troop performance declined, the focus shifted to mental health as a potential explanation, and by the 1990s, research increased with the aim of improving combat effectiveness through better mental well-being.

What challenges do diverse military roles in China pose for assessing mental health?

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) members undertake a wide array of duties across a vast geographical area, including disaster relief, peacekeeping, border protection, and riot control. This diversity makes it difficult to accurately gauge the mental health impacts on soldiers and to implement a single, standardized approach to addressing mental health problems.

What are some of the preventative and reactive solutions proposed by Chinese researchers for military mental health?

Chinese researchers propose solutions such as implementing early mental health training and conducting mental health assessments to help service members understand and manage their psychological state. They also suggest incorporating psychoeducation, psychological training, and attention to physical health into programs for timely intervention.

When was mental health vetting first incorporated into the Chinese military recruitment process?

Mental health vetting was incorporated into the Chinese military recruitment process starting in 2006, initiated by the People's Republic Minister for National Defense. This measure aims to identify individuals predisposed to mental illness early in their military careers.

What specific coping technique for PTSD was mentioned in a leaked 2008 PLA training manual excerpt?

A leaked excerpt from a 2008 PLA training manual suggested a technique for soldiers experiencing PTSD: to close their eyes and imagine zooming in on the scene like a camera, then zooming out until nothing is visible, to mentally declare the flashback gone. This technique aimed to help personnel manage traumatic memories during peacekeeping missions.

What did Article 84 of China's Mental Health Law of 2012 stipulate regarding military mental health?

Article 84 of the 2012 Mental Health Law of the People's Republic of China stated that the State Council and the Central Military Committee would formulate specific regulations based on the law to manage mental health work within the military. This marked the first time military mental health was explicitly addressed in a legal document.

What factors have been identified as contributing to increased anxiety among current and former Chinese military personnel?

Analysis of studies suggests that anxiety levels in current and ex-military personnel have increased due to factors such as economic conditions, a lack of social connections, and perceived threats to their livelihood. These issues have led to veteran protests advocating for better post-service benefits and support.

What is perinatal depression, and what are its potential consequences?

Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that occurs during pregnancy and can extend into the postpartum period. It is linked to adverse health outcomes for both the mother and the infant, highlighting the importance of addressing maternal mental health.

What is the estimated prevalence of perinatal depression among Chinese women?

A meta-regression analysis indicates that perinatal depression affects approximately 16.3% of Chinese women. Specifically, 19.7% experience it during pregnancy, and 14.8% experience it after childbirth. This suggests a significant portion of mothers are affected by this condition.

What relationship was found between provincial GDP and perinatal depression rates in Chinese mothers?

Studies have indicated a significant inverse relationship between a province's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the rates of perinatal depression among mothers in that region. This suggests that higher economic development may be associated with lower rates of perinatal depression.

What risk factors negatively impact the mental health of Chinese mothers during the perinatal period?

Risk factors identified as negatively impacting the mental health of Chinese mothers include lower socioeconomic status, compromised physical well-being, pregnancy-related anxiety, challenges experienced during childbirth, and inadequate social support systems.

How did the implementation of the universal two-child policy potentially affect the mental health of mothers in China?

Following the implementation of the universal two-child policy, one review article indicated that mothers experiencing their second pregnancy exhibited a higher likelihood of anxiety symptoms compared to both the general prenatal population and the entire study sample. This suggests that policy changes can have nuanced impacts on maternal mental health.

What impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on the mental health of perinatal women in China?

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the mental health and well-being of perinatal women in China. Studies reported high prevalence rates of psychological distress (70%), anxiety (37%), depressive symptoms (31%), and insomnia (49%) among these women during the pandemic.

Mental Health In China Wiki: Mind Matters: A Deep Dive into China's Mental Health Landscape

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Historical Context

Early Institutions

The foundation of formal mental health care in China began before 1849 with the establishment of institutions by Western missionaries. A significant milestone was the opening of the first psychiatric hospital in 1898 by missionary doctor John G. Kerr, aiming for more humane treatment of individuals with mental health conditions.

Post-1949 Development

Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the nation focused on developing its mental health infrastructure, including building psychiatric hospitals and training programs for professionals. However, the Cultural Revolution led to the discontinuation of many community-based mental health initiatives.

Modernization and Policy

In 1999, a joint initiative between Chinese ministries and the World Health Organization (WHO) spurred a commitment to a national mental health action plan and legislation. The subsequent 2002 action plan prioritized legal frameworks, public education on mental illness, and the development of a comprehensive care system. The 686 Program, initiated in 2006, aimed to revitalize community mental health services, shifting focus from psychiatric hospitals to community-based care, particularly benefiting rural areas.

Current Landscape

Widespread Impact

It is estimated that approximately 130 million adults in China live with a mental disorder annually. Despite ongoing development in mental health services, a significant portion of the population remains untreated or undiagnosed. This disparity is influenced by persistent stigma, a shortage of mental health professionals, and culturally specific ways in which mental illness is expressed.

Legal Frameworks

China adopted a new Mental Health Law in 2012, which introduced regulations to protect patients' rights, particularly concerning involuntary hospitalization. The law stipulates that only qualified psychiatrists can determine mental illness and that patients generally have the right to refuse treatment, with compulsory inpatient care reserved for individuals posing a clear risk to themselves or others. However, criticisms remain regarding the enforcement of these rights and the absence of legal hearings akin to mental health tribunals.

International Collaboration

Since 1993, the World Health Organization has collaborated with China to develop a national mental health information system, supporting data collection and policy development in this critical public health area.

Prevalence of Disorders

Statistical Overview

Research indicates that roughly 16% of Chinese adults experience mood disorders annually, with major depressive disorder affecting about 6%. Anxiety disorders are present in 13% of the population, and alcohol use disorder in 9%. Women are more likely to experience mood and anxiety disorders, while men show higher rates of alcohol use disorder. Rural populations tend to have higher rates of major depressive disorder and alcohol dependence.

Specific Conditions

Depression is a significant concern, accounting for approximately 50% of outpatient mental health admissions. Bipolar disorder also has a disproportionately severe impact on the quality of life for individuals in China and other East Asian countries. While national suicide rates have reportedly declined, they remain higher in rural areas, often linked to pesticide poisoning.

Global Context

The impact of mental health conditions on quality of life, as measured by disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), shows a notable burden in China and East Asia, particularly concerning conditions like bipolar disorder. This underscores the substantial public health challenge mental health represents within the region.

Cultural Stigma

Belief Systems and Harmony

Dominant cultural and religious beliefs, including Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and shamanism, emphasize social harmony, strong moral conduct, and familial duty. Illness, including mental illness, is sometimes perceived as a consequence of moral failings or neglect of family obligations in this life or past lives. This perspective can discourage individuals from seeking help due to fear of shame and social isolation for themselves and their families.

The emphasis on acting harmoniously with nature, adhering to strong moral codes, and fulfilling familial duties is central to many Chinese philosophical and religious traditions. When mental illness arises, it can be interpreted through the lens of these principles, potentially being seen as a manifestation of personal or familial shortcomings. This cultural framework fosters an environment where individuals may avoid drawing attention to their mental health struggles to preserve their reputation and maintain social equilibrium, leading to reluctance in seeking professional assistance.

Reputation and Expectations

Maintaining a good family reputation is highly valued in Chinese culture. Mental health issues are often viewed as a sign of weakness that can hinder individuals from meeting societal and familial expectations (academic, career, social). This perception can lead to the internalization of mental health problems, potentially exacerbating them and creating barriers to seeking professional treatment.

Acceptance of Fate

Many traditional philosophies encourage acceptance of one's fate. This can translate into a reluctance to actively seek treatment for mental health symptoms, as individuals may believe they should not challenge their perceived destiny. It can also reinforce adherence to societal stereotypes and ostracization of those with mental illness.

Workforce Challenges

Shortage of Professionals

China faces a significant deficit in qualified mental health professionals. As of 2019, the country had approximately 2.9 licensed psychiatrists per 100,000 population, considerably lower than the average in developed nations. Many counties lack any psychiatrists, and a substantial number of individuals without prior experience can obtain counseling licenses after brief training.

Factors Affecting Recruitment

The field of psychiatry struggles to attract medical graduates due to factors such as limited knowledge about the discipline, relatively low salaries, heavy workloads, and the pervasive stigma associated with mental illness. These challenges contribute to the difficulty in building a robust and accessible mental healthcare workforce.

Symptom Presentation

Somatic vs. Psychological

Studies suggest that Chinese patients with mental illnesses are more likely to report physical symptoms (e.g., fatigue, muscle aches) rather than psychological ones, a pattern observed in conditions like depression. It remains unclear whether this reflects a cultural comfort in expressing physical complaints or a genuine difference in how depression manifests across cultures.

Concerns of Misuse

Political Dissidence

There have been persistent accusations that China's psychiatric facilities have been misused by authorities to detain political dissidents. Prior to the 2012 Mental Health Law, involuntary admissions were common and often required only family consent. While the law now mandates assessment by a psychiatrist for compulsory treatment, reports indicate that criteria for involuntary admission are not always met, and the number of such admissions remains high.

Military Mental Health

Focus and Challenges

Military mental health has emerged as a significant area of focus. Active service members can experience conditions like PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, and depression. Research has explored the impact of harsh environments (e.g., high altitudes) and demanding roles (e.g., peacekeepers) on soldiers' mental well-being. Studies indicate that while some initiatives exist, such as mental health vetting during recruitment and inclusion of coping techniques in training manuals, comprehensive and reliable data remains limited.

Post-Service Concerns

Despite efforts, anxiety levels among current and former military personnel have reportedly increased, influenced by economic conditions and social factors. This has led to veteran protests advocating for better post-service benefits, job support, and government accountability. The establishment of the Ministry of Veteran Affairs in 2018 and promises of legislative protection aim to address these concerns.

Women's Well-being

Perinatal Mental Health

Perinatal depression, affecting mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period, is a notable concern. Studies indicate a prevalence of approximately 16.3% among Chinese women, with higher rates reported during pregnancy. Factors such as lower socioeconomic status, compromised physical health, pregnancy-related anxiety, and inadequate social support are linked to increased risk. Conversely, improved living standards and educational support appear to offer protective benefits.

Pandemic Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of perinatal women in China. Research indicates elevated rates of psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia among pregnant and postpartum women during this period, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic to public health crises.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Mental Health In China" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about mental_health_in_china while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

posterior inferior cerebellar artery

2011 northeast grand prix

c ălin rovinescu

territories of the united states

References

China: End Arbitrary Detention in Mental Health Institutions Human Rights Watch, May 3, 2013

Wang Y., Zhang, L., Chen, C., Yao, G. (2012) Application of Chinese Military Health Scale in screening mental health of new recruits. Medical and Health Research Foundation of PLA. 37(5) pp. 420â4

Zhao, M., Feng, Z., Wang, F., Lai, W., Hu, F...Xia, L. (2017). Chinese military mental health at high altitude, 1993â2013: A cross-temporal meta-analysis of SCL-90. Acta Psychologica Sinica. 49(5), pp. 653â662

Wang, X., He. X. (2015) Progress of Chinese Military Mental Health. J Third Mil Med Univ, 37(22) pp. 2213â2217

Tan, Y., Li, Y., Wu, J., Chen, F., Lu, H., Lu, S., Yang, X., ... Ma, X. (2018). Mental health of Automobile Transportation Troop personnel stationed in the Western Sichuan Plateau of China. Medicine, 97(12),

Sun, X., Zhao, L., Chen, C., Cui, X., Guo, J., Zhang, L. (2014). Mental Health of Chinese Peacekeepers in Liberia. Eur J. Psychiat 28, pg 77â85

Feng Zhengzhi ,Qin, D.(2008) A Meta-Analysis Concerning the Mental Health Status of Members of the Chinese Army. Third Military Medical University. 40(03). pp. 358â367.

Chen H.H., Phillips, M.R., Cheng, H., Chen, Q.Q, Chen, X.D...Bueber, M. (2012) Mental Health Law of the Peopleâs Republic of China. Shanghai Arch Psychiatry 24(6)pg. 305â321

Yan J , Wang LJ , Cheng Q , Miao D.M., Zhang L.Y...Pan, Y. (2008) Estimated mental health and analysis of relative factors for new Chinese recruits. Mil Med 173(10) pp. 1031 â 4.

Ge, Y., Ma, K., Cai, W., Zhang, S,. Wei, D. (2018) Relationship between anxiety sensitivity and psychological health. Academic Journal of Second Military Medical University. (Vol. 39) pg. 92â96

Xu, X., Li, X., Zhang, J., Wang, W., (2018) Mental Health-Related Stigma in China. Issues in Mental Health Nursing. 37(2) pp. 126â134

Yang, Z., Cao, F., Lu, H., Zhu, X., Miao, D. (2014) Changes of anxiety in Chinese Military personnel over time: a cross-temporal meta-analysis. International Journal of Mental Health Systems. 8

A full list of references for this article are available at the Mental health in China Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric, or medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or mental health concerns. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Mind Matters

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Historical Context 🕰️

⛪ Early Institutions

🇨🇳 Post-1949 Development

🤝 Modernization and Policy

Current Landscape 📊

👥 Widespread Impact

⚖️ Legal Frameworks

🌐 International Collaboration

Prevalence of Disorders 📈

📊 Statistical Overview

🧠 Specific Conditions

🌍 Global Context

Cultural Stigma 🎭

📜 Belief Systems and Harmony

⭐ Reputation and Expectations

🧘 Acceptance of Fate

Workforce Challenges 🧑‍⚕️

📉 Shortage of Professionals

💼 Factors Affecting Recruitment

Symptom Presentation 🌡️

🤕 Somatic vs. Psychological

Concerns of Misuse 🔒

⚖️ Political Dissidence

Military Mental Health 🎖️

🛡️ Focus and Challenges

📈 Post-Service Concerns

Women's Well-being 👩‍👧‍

🤰 Perinatal Mental Health

🦠 Pandemic Impact

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Historical Context

Early Institutions

Post-1949 Development

Modernization and Policy

Current Landscape

Widespread Impact

Legal Frameworks

International Collaboration

Prevalence of Disorders

Statistical Overview

Specific Conditions

Global Context

Cultural Stigma

Belief Systems and Harmony

Reputation and Expectations

Acceptance of Fate

Workforce Challenges

Shortage of Professionals

Factors Affecting Recruitment

Symptom Presentation

Somatic vs. Psychological

Concerns of Misuse

Political Dissidence

Military Mental Health

Focus and Challenges

Post-Service Concerns

Women's Well-being

Perinatal Mental Health

Pandemic Impact

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice