A Local Community Sharing Warm Hearts - Being a "Mental Health City"

The municipality of Yongsan-gu, Seoul (Korea), has recognized the growing prevalence of mental health issues among its population, particularly children and adolescents. Surveys indicate that over half of Seoul citizens feel they lack adequate social support, and a significant portion report having no one to turn to in times of difficulty. In response, Yongsan-gu declared itself a “Mental Health City” and shifted its approach from post-treatment to proactive, community-based mental health care. This paradigm emphasizes early detection, communication, and ongoing management, aiming to address mental health challenges before they escalate.

Two flagship programs exemplify this approach. The “Let’s Have Fun, Friends!” initiative targets elementary school students, focusing on enhancing social skills, expressiveness, self-regulation, and empathy through group activities. Meanwhile, the “Onmaeum Playground” program provides year-round play therapy and parent counseling for infants and toddlers in local daycare centers. By installing therapy rooms within familiar environments and dispatching professional therapists, the program improves accessibility and reduces the stigma and logistical barriers often associated with seeking mental health support.

The results have been promising. Participants in the social skills program reported increased positivity, better communication, and stronger peer relationships. Parents and children involved in the play therapy program noted improved language, emotional regulation, and social development. The integration of professional supervision and standardized assessment tools has also enabled objective evaluation of developmental progress. These programs have also fostered collaboration among local government, universities, and childcare centers, creating a sustainable support network.

Yongsan-gu’s experience offers valuable lessons for other communities. Key recommendations include designing child-led programs, prioritizing early and inclusive intervention, and building strong partnerships across sectors. By focusing on proactive measures, continuous professional development, and community engagement, local governments can better support the mental health and healthy development of children and adolescents, ultimately fostering resilience and well-being across society.