Psychiatric health issues now on govt planning list (JAPAN)

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Psychiatric health issues now on govt planning list

The Yomiuri Shimbun

The health ministry plans to add mental problems to a list of major ailments, bringing the number of such illnesses to five, according to ministry sources.

The number of those suffering from mental problems such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia has risen every year, surpassing the number of patients of the ministry's already recognized major conditions--cancer, stroke, heart failure and diabetes. The dramatic increase of patients suffering from mental trouble has prompted the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry to take action, the sources said.

On Wednesday, the ministry presented guidelines to its social security council subcommittee to incorporate measures against mental illness into the nation's health care policy. The panel approved the guidelines later the same day.

Local governments are expected to draw up their regional health care plans based on ministry guidelines.

MORE...http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T110707005542.htm

But treating the suffering of millions? No, can't do that. it's socialism.