Advertisement
China Expands Mental Health Services to Tackle Rising Cases Among Youth
HONG KONG — In response to growing mental health challenges, particularly among children and teenagers, China's National Health Commission (NHC) has unveiled a new initiative to strengthen mental health services nationwide from 2026 to 2027.
The NHC announced plans on Tuesday (Dec 31) to launch a national mental health hotline, establish regional mental health centers, and enhance specialized clinical care in psychiatry. The move aims to improve accessibility and quality of care as demand for psychological support rises.
This development follows several high-profile incidents in 2024 that brought mental health concerns into sharp focus, including multiple stabbing cases and vehicle-related attacks targeting crowds.
"By 2026, every prefecture-level city must have at least one hospital offering outpatient services for mental and sleep disorders," stated the NHC in its official release. The commission emphasized the need for comprehensive coverage across urban and rural areas.
The scale of China's mental health challenge is significant. World Health Organization data reveals approximately 54 million Chinese citizens suffer from depression - roughly equivalent to Spain's entire population - while about 41 million experience anxiety disorders within the country's 1.4 billion population.
"Adolescent depression rates currently stand around two percent," noted Xie Bin, Communist Party chief of Shanghai Mental Health Center, in recent comments reported by Xinhua.
Education System Responds
A national action plan implemented last year is making progress in schools: over 95% of educational institutions are projected to employ either full-time or part-time mental health instructors by year's end. This initiative represents one component of broader efforts addressing psychological wellbeing across age groups.
Nissan Elgrand Returns in Style: A New Chapter for a Premium Japanese MPV
Large MPVs are enjoying strong demand today, and Nissan is clearly ready to rejoin the competition. After several years away from the spotlight, the brand is bringing back the Elgrand, its flagship luxury MPV, with a striking design and an interior that aims to set new standards of comfort. The refreshed model made its first appearance in late October at the 2026 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, giving the world a clear glimpse of Nissan’s renewed direction for premium family travel.
Affordable, Sustainable, Attainable — e,MAS 5 Is A Turning Point For Malaysian EVs
For years, many Malaysians viewed electric cars as something futuristic—exciting to look at, but far too expensive to consider. They were often associated with premium brands, high price tags, and tech trends that felt out of reach. But that perception is shifting quickly, and it’s largely thanks to a new national model that rolled onto Malaysian roads on 30 October 2026: the Proton e.MAS 5.This launch marks a turning point in the country’s move towards cleaner mobility. It’s not just about brin
ental health services youth mental health China mental health rising mental health cases mental health expansion
What Singapore Residents Should Know About Using Medisave for Dental Care
Medisave is Singapore’s national healthcare savings scheme, designed to help citizens and permanent residents set aside part of their income for future medical needs. While many associate Medisave with hospital stays and major procedures, fewer people realise that it can also be used for selected dental services under specific conditions.Understanding what is covered — and what is not — can help patients plan their dental expenses more effectively and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.When Ca
Accusefive create special memories with unplugged performance after Singapore concert hit by tech glitches
Accusefive's Run, Run, Run! world tour stop in Singapore was supposed to be a reset for the Taiwanese trio — a livehouse concert that promise intimacy and heart-to-heart connections as the once-indie sensation look to reconnect with their roots.
Advertisement
Trending
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Starting a healthier lifestyle often feels overwhelming, but as one father-daughter team discovered, the journey becomes much easier with the right support system and simple first steps. Their heartwarming story proves that positive change is within everyone's reach.
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
A groundbreaking California study presented at a major medical conference on May 31 suggests that wildfire smoke could significantly increase mortality risks for lung cancer patients, with non-smokers being particularly vulnerable. However, certain cancer treatments might help counteract these effects.
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore is facing a growing health challenge – obesity rates are climbing at an alarming rate, with serious implications for public health.
Advertisement
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
March 20 marks World Oral Health Day - the perfect opportunity to explore how your dental hygiene impacts far more than just your smile. Emerging research reveals startling connections between oral health and overall wellbeing that might surprise you.
Rise of Unqualified Online "Counsellors" Sparks Mental Health Concerns in Singapore
Mental health professionals in Singapore are raising alarms over the growing trend of untrained individuals offering counselling services on digital platforms. Experts warn this phenomenon poses serious risks, including potential misdiagnosis, harmful advice, and violations of client confidentiality.
Fluoride in Singapore: Should You Be Concerned About Its Effects?
A recent US study published in January has reignited debates about fluoride usage, particularly in water, after suggesting a possible link between higher fluoride exposure and lower IQ scores in children. The findings, featured in the Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics, have drawn criticism from some scientists who question the study's methodology while reaffirming fluoride's well-documented dental benefits.
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
GENEVA - After three years of intense negotiations, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) are on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking treaty to strengthen global pandemic preparedness, according to sources close to the talks. The discussions, which continued through Friday night into Saturday morning (April 12), have been temporarily paused until Tuesday as officials work to resolve remaining sticking points.
Breaking the Silence: Singapore Women's Struggle with Undiagnosed Sexual Health Issues
SINGAPORE – When 30-year-old Aisyah (name changed for privacy) found herself unable to consummate her marriage in 2022, she and her husband immediately recognized this wasn't just newlywed jitters.
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
Following criticism over excessively brief teleconsultations, telehealth provider MaNaDr has announced stricter measures to enhance service quality and rebuild patient trust.
Advertisement
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
LONDON — The global fight to eliminate polio faces significant setbacks due to drastic funding cuts from the United States, which could delay eradication efforts and leave more children vulnerable to paralysis, warns a top World Health Organization (WHO) official.
7 Budget-Friendly Dental Clinics in Singapore for Quality Care Without Breaking the Bank
We all know the golden rule: visit the dentist every six months for a checkup. But let's be honest—finding an affordable dentist in Singapore can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The good news? You don't always need to stick rigidly to that six-month schedule. If you're diligent about oral hygiene, stretching visits to once every 18 months or even two years is possible. Still, regular checkups are crucial to catch issues like cavities early before they turn into costly problems.
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Fasting from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan can test one's endurance, making it crucial to maintain energy levels while resisting the temptation of overeating. As the holy month transitions into the joyous celebrations of Hari Raya Puasa (Aidilfitri), balancing festive feasts with mindful eating becomes essential for well-being.
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
SINGAPORE — In a startling revelation about the state of our planet's air, just seven countries worldwide met the World Health Organisation's (WHO) stringent air quality benchmarks last year. This alarming data comes as environmental researchers sound the alarm about worsening pollution tracking capabilities following the shutdown of crucial US-led global monitoring initiatives.
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Chinese researchers have identified a bat coronavirus that shares a key trait with the virus behind Covid-19—it uses the same ACE2 receptor to invade human cells. While this raises concerns about potential future transmission, experts caution against alarm, as the virus currently shows limited ability to infect humans.
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
JOHANNESBURG — In a high-tech Johannesburg laboratory, Nozipho Mlotshwa and her team were on the verge of a potential breakthrough in the decades-long quest for an HIV vaccine. Their latest formulation had just triggered promising immune responses in animal trials when an abrupt order from Washington froze all progress.
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
GENEVA — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has uncovered startling new data revealing a dangerous gap in public knowledge across Europe regarding alcohol's direct connection to cancer. In a bold move, the health authority is urging governments to implement mandatory tobacco-style warning labels on alcoholic beverages—particularly in the world’s heaviest-drinking region.
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
The entertainment world was left reeling this Monday (Feb 3) with the shocking news of Taiwanese actress-host Barbie Hsu's sudden passing. At just 48 years old, the beloved celebrity and mother of two succumbed to a severe case of pneumonia - an inflammation of lung tissue that reportedly developed from complications following influenza contracted during a recent holiday in Japan.
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
In a decisive move to stay ahead of the evolving pandemic, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel members voted unanimously on Thursday (May 22) to recommend next-generation COVID-19 vaccines specifically designed to combat emerging JN.1 variant strains for the 2026-2026 immunization campaign.
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
The journey of motherhood is often painted with images of radiant joy and unconditional love. Yet for many women, this transformative chapter comes with unexpected emotional turbulence that goes far deeper than temporary "baby blues."
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
SEOUL — South Korea's agriculture ministry announced on Friday (March 14) that a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease has been detected in a cattle farm, marking the country's first outbreak in nearly two years.
Recommend
Driving centres in Singapore hike learner fees in 2026
SINGAPORE — Taking lessons to seek a driving licence has become more expensive, with the three driving centres in Singapore raising fees from Jan 1.
Surging Demand for European Routes Among Asian Airlines Amid Middle Eastern Travel Disruptions
HONG KONG — Major Asian airlines are experiencing a surge in demand on European routes as travelers increasingly avoid disrupted Middle Eastern hubs. Analysts suggest that this trend may continue even after the Iran conflict comes to an end.
5 Top Car Insurance Plans in Singapore for 2026 – A Smart Driver’s Guide
Car insurance is one of the most important financial protections for drivers in Singapore. However, with so many providers offering different features, premiums, and claim processes, choosing the right policy can be challenging. A good policy should balance price, protection, reliability, and service quality, especially when unexpected situations happen on the road.
Vivian Hsu narrowly misses getting hit by shower pipe burst in Singapore home: 'I probably would've broken my ribs or hit my head'
Never take safety for granted, even at home, for accidents can happen when we least expect it.
Advertisement
The True Origin of Ho Ching Road in Jurong West
Many people might assume that Ho Ching Road in Jurong West is named after Ho Ching, the wife of Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, but its name actually has a different origin.
Editorial Picks: Compact executive SUVs below $380,000
Finding the right SUV in Singapore is often a balancing act. You want something that feels premium and refined, offers enough space for family duties, yet remains compact enough to navigate narrow carparks and busy city streets with ease. Compact executive SUVs sit right in that sweet spot, blending comfort, technology, and everyday practicality.In this editorial series, we take a closer look at key vehicle segments and highlight models worth considering, along with their strengths and trade-off
Stephen Graham tells Adolescence fans to 'stay tuned' for season 2
Stephen Graham has told Adolescence fans to "stay tuned" for season two.
More consistent budget meal quality, extended rental discounts at HDB coffee shops
Residents can expect a more consistent quality in budget meals as HDB coffee shop operators and stallholders receive more rental support.
Best Personal Injury Lawyer Cost Near Me (2026 Guide)
The topic of personal injury lawyer cost near me is highly searched across the United States.Users often compare lawyer fees, local injury attorneys, and contingency payment options.There is also strong interest in legal insurance coverage and no upfront cost representation.
SK Hynix sinks after Nasdaq debut amid profit-taking, easing earnings optimism
SEOUL — SK Hynix shares dropped as much as 8.2 per cent in early Seoul trade on Monday (July 13) as investors booked profit, after a high-profile US listing saw the world's leading AI memory chipmaker surge 12.8 per cent in its Nasdaq debut on Friday.