In Japan, matters related to mental health and welfare are stipulated in the Act on Mental Health and Welfare for Persons with Mental Disorders or Disabilities (The Mental Health and Welfare Act). The purpose of this Act is to promote the welfare of persons with mental disorders or disabilities and improve the mental health of citizens, by providing for the medical care and protection of persons with mental disorders or disabilities; by providing necessary aid to promote the social reintegration, independence, and participation in socio-economic activities of persons with mental disorders or disabilities, in combination with the Act on Providing Comprehensive Support for the Daily Life and Life in Society of Persons with Disabilities (Act No. 123 of 2005); and by preventing mental disorders or disabilities and maintaining and improving the mental health of citizens (Mental Health and Welfare Act, Article 1).