Study to Gain Deeper Understanding of Intersectionality of Profile Factors on Suicide Rates Among Residents for Better Outreach Efforts

Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Minister for Health whether the Ministry will consider conducting a study to gain a deeper understanding of the intersectionality of factors, such as socio-economic status, age, geography, ethnicity and gender, on suicide rates among Singapore residents so that the Government and society can conduct better outreach to such individuals.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: There are ongoing studies conducted by the Institute of Mental Health, with funding support from the Ministry of Health, to understand the risk factors for suicide and self-harm, as well as the mitigating factors for prevention and/or reduction of self-harm. These studies will inform future measures to provide outreach and holistic support for persons in crisis.