Perspectives on emerging challenges and opportunities for improving mental health outcomes in the region
Mental health continues to rise on the agenda across Asia Pacific (APAC). In 2021, KPMG and Johnson & Johnson released a landmark whitepaper highlighting the growing burden of major depression in the region. Four years on, this updated whitepaper revisits that foundation—examining what has changed, what remains unresolved, and what must happen next.
Drawing on insights from seven APAC markets—Australia, Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan—this report offers a neuroscience-informed view of the region’s evolving mental health landscape. It identifies persistent barriers, recent progress, and future priorities across three key themes:
- Access to Care: Ensuring equitable and sustainable access to mental health services through appropriate resource allocation, financial investment, and community-based support.
- Health System Reform: Redesigning care pathways and strengthening the mental health workforce to support integrated, online-offline models of care.
- Policy Development: Empowering societies through government-led initiatives that improve mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and promote long-term awareness.
This full report is a strategic guide for policymakers, healthcare leaders, and industry partners committed to transforming mental health outcomes across the region.
