Exploring changes in recognition and stigmatization toward individuals with schizophrenia
Applied/Translational Research
Care Continuum
Singapore Health Biomedical Congress
National Healthcare Group
SingHealth
2 March 2026
The study examined changes in schizophrenia recognition and stigma over eight years in Singapore, as well as current trends. The lack of significant improvement in recognition was likely due to a lack of targeted schizophrenia awareness campaigns in Singapore.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 02 March 2026
Tags: Quantitative Research, Mental Health, Preventive Care, Public Awareness, Population Health, Care Continuum, Applied/Translational Research
About this Content
Aims
The study examined changes in schizophrenia recognition and stigma over eight years in Singapore, as well as current trends in their sociodemographic correlates.
Background
Schizophrenia is a debilitating illness that poses long-term impairment in individuals and economic burden on society. Early recognition is essential for successful treatment outcomes. Mental health literacy, i.e., recognition and stigma towards mental illnesses, is crucial for guiding policy and informing targeted interventions. The study examined changes in schizophrenia recognition and stigma over eight years in Singapore, as well as current trends in their sociodemographic correlates.
Methods
The study utilized data from two nationwide cross-sectional studies on mental health literacy using a vignette approach. Singapore residents aged 18-65 were recruited via disproportionate stratified sampling. Respondents were presented with a vignette of a person with schizophrenia and recognition was assessed using an open-ended question. Stigmatizing attitudes were assessed using the personal stigma and social distance scales.
Results
Correct schizophrenia recognition increased from 11.5% to 15.1%, though the difference was not statistically significant. There was a statistically significant reduction in weak, not sick and dangerous, unpredictable stigma scores. Younger age and social contact with individuals with schizophrenia were associated with better recognition and less stigma. Individuals of Malay and Indian ethnicities attributed schizophrenia as a personal weakness but showed less social distancing.
Lessons Learnt
The lack of significant improvement in recognition was likely due to a lack of targeted schizophrenia awareness campaigns in Singapore while the significant improvement in personal stigma was likely due to greater awareness and emphasis on general mental health. Future initiatives should focus on culturally tailored anti-stigma interventions for schizophrenia accessible to older individuals and leveraging social contact.
Keywords
Schizophrenia, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Stigma, Social, Singapore
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group, SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | Duke-NUS Medical School, Institute of Mental Health |
Platform(s) | Singapore Health Biomedical Congress |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical, Academia, Government Agencies |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Psychiatry |
Project Lead(s) | Ke Cao |
Project Member(s) | Edimansyah Abdin |
Connect with this contributor!
Ke Cao - cococaock@gmail.com