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{{label}}15 October 2019
According to the 2015 National Health Morbidity Survey, mental health conditions or mental illnesses are slated to become the second biggest illness, after heart disease, affecting Malaysians come 2020. Despite what many may think, most people who suffer from mental health conditions tend to recover, or are able to live with and manage them, especially if they get help early on.
Although TV shows and movies have been doing a better job over the past few years in the accuracy of their depiction of mental health conditions
Much of the stigma we have towards mental health problems here in Asia stems from our cultural backgrounds, which are mostly dominated by religious or spiritual explanations. Many families, especially those in the rural communities still relate mental health problems with demon possession, divine punishment, sickness of the soul and others.
Another stigma that�s prevalent in our side of the world is the belief that only weak people succumb to mental issues. This stigma is so prevalent that it prevents those afflicted by it from getting the help they need. Those suffering from mental illness tend to be labeled as crazy, weak, over-sensitive, lacking in faith as well as over-dramatic.
While the cost of private psychiatric services may be expensive, there are numerous ways in which one can explore to help with one�s mental health problems without burning a hole in the pocket. Malaysia has various emotional support hotlines that you could contact should you feel the need to talk to someone. Befrienders is a good starting point as it is open 24/7 and recently went toll free thanks to the efforts by Malaysian government and several telecommunication groups. The Women�s Aid Organisation is a hotline you can call if you�re in a domestic situation that is unhealthy or can cause you harm. The Malaysian Mental Health Association also provides support via their phone line on any mental health issues. They have qualified mental health professionals that provide psychological support services and financial subsidies are readily available to ensure that necessary therapy and support is given to anyone who needs it.
So how do we overcome the stigma of mental illness? To start off, mental health professionals and the government need to strive to provide services that will best engage and treat all patients, especially young adults (of whom have the highest rate of those suffering from mental illness).
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