SHAH ALAM: At least 3,000 people have sought treatment for mental health issues at clinics in Selangor from 2020 to today.
Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin said the number of stable mental health patients who continued treatment at clinics remains the same.
"Klang clinic treats the highest number of patients, with more than 500 cases annually, followed by Petaling Jaya with over 400 patients, and Sepang with more than 300 patients," she said at the Selangor State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session today.
She said the causes of mental health disorders include internal factors such as genetics and personality, as well as life stressors, and the stigma associated with mental health.
"Lifestyle factors also play a role, including substance abuse and lack of physical activity.
"These individuals need social support to help manage their life's challenges," said Jamaliah.
She said the state government, through the Selangor State Health Department (JKNS), also plans seven strategies to tackle this issue, including inter-agency cooperation.
"At least once a year, a technical meeting on mental health involving all stakeholders, such as psychiatrists, counselors, District Health Offices (PKD), the State Secretary's Office and the State Education Department, will be held to discuss program achievements and improvements.
"We also conduct suicide behaviour management training for health staff (MySave) and mental health screenings for at-risk clients at outpatient departments (hospitals)," she said.