(image: Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, May 30 (Korea Bizwire) — South Koreans in their 20s and 30s are increasingly open about seeking therapy at outpatient psychiatry departments, data showed Monday.
According to the data compiled by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of individuals seeking hospital treatment for depression reached 910,785 in 2021, marking a 35 percent increase over the past five years.
Among these, those in their 20s accounted for 173,745 individuals, more than doubling over the same period. Similarly, those in their 30s saw a 65 percent increase, with their number reaching 137,133.
The rise in young people seeking hospital treatment for depression can be attributed to changes in their perception of mental health treatment, along with an increase in depression cases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“There is a growing awareness among individuals in their 20s and 30s that seeking help through psychiatry is an option when dealing with stress or facing difficulties,” said Kang Jee-in, a professor of psychiatry at Yonsei University College of Medicine.
Kang further mentioned that in contrast to the past, where people were hesitant to visit psychiatric departments due to fear of bias and stigmatization, and sought medical help only when their symptoms worsened, there is now a gradual decrease in the severity of conditions among first-time patients.
J. S. Shin (js_shin@koreabizwire.com)
