SIGNATURE WORK
CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2022

Background: The increasing mental issue in China is calling for a social emphasis on mental health. Limited attention and government involvement have created a further need for broader social governance and social services. The involvement of non-governmental organization (NGOs), as a potential solution, may increase access to services for people in need. This study aims to 1) review the necessity of NGO involvement in mental health care, and 2) use a case study to discuss current participation of NGOs in mental health service provision, collaborating with government agencies in China.

Methods: Literature was conducted to review the existing research on mental health status and the development of NGOs in China. 1-month observation in an NGO X was conducted to discern essential details of its daily operation. Individual interviews were conducted with key informants to gain internal information that may not be revealed in other situations.

Results: In the current collaborative model, government agencies play a dominant role in providing NGOs with program opportunities and financial support and NGOs take the role of professional service providers. While responding to the government’s requirements and expectations, NGOs face three major challenges: 1) Overdependence on financial support from the government, 2) Shortage of talents and high staff turnover rates, and 3) Increasingly high demand for innovation.

Conclusion: The current involvement of NGOs in mental health services in China is still limited. NGOs need to expand their social visibility and adjust their internal structure to enhance their competitiveness. Meanwhile, it is suggested that government needs to provide more support to promote healthy development of NGOs. Further research on the collaborative models between the government agencies and NGOs in mental care services in China is warranted.