KUALA LUMPUR: The cases of adolescents suffering from depression in Malaysia have increased.
The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) survey revealed that one in four adolescents suffered from depression in 2022, compared to one in five in 2019.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the ministry gave its assurance that the ministry will continue strengthening access to a better mental health services to address the issue.
She said the ministry established a mental health crisis helpline (15555) to increase access to mental health support services and tele-counselling.
"The helpline received 26,139 calls this year, of which 16,942 received emotional support and another 9,197 received specific intervention by psychological counselling officers," she said in a statement in conjunction with World Mental Health Day today.
She said the roles of the family and local community are crucial to encourage individuals to obtain appropriate help and professional treatment.
She said non-governmental organisations also play an important role to impart awareness through activities and to improve the community's mental health literacy.
"The health ministry is working closely with government agencies, NGOs and community leaders in policy planning and programme development, in addition to the implementation of mental health advocacy programmes at the community level.
"This concerted effort needs to be supported by all parties towards eliminating the stigma against individuals who have mental illness," she said.
This year's World Mental Health Day is themed 'Mental health belongs to all, stop the stigma,' which emphasises the right to mental healthcare and how it should be depreciated.
Dr Zaliha said stigma and negative perceptions surrounding mental health must be halted.
"Stigma and discrimination against mental health are among the main challenges that hinder access to good mental health treatment.
"Individuals with mental health problems should be encouraged to seek treatment in the same way as other physical illnesses," she said.