LETTERS: Growing up is like going through an obstacle course, facing pressure from all directions such as family expectations, academics and social media.
These elements play a part, as the country registered more than 600 suicide incidents in 2019 alone, a significant number of which involved youths, according to the National Suicide Registry Malaysia.
Experts believe that a lack of self-love among youth is one underlying cause. Self-love is a often overlooked in mental wellbeing.
It is often misunderstood as selfishness, but it is actually the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life.
In a recent study conducted by the Malaysian Youth Council, 78 per cent of participants admitted to feeling pressured to meet societal expectations.
Moreover, 65 per cent stated that they had encountered feelings of low self-esteem at some stage in their lives.
There are some who try to tackle this by speaking out in favour of change or seek a different approach.
Influencers like Nandini Balakrishnan promote the importance of self-love, body positivity and mental health awareness.
"A lot of us know how to love others, we just have to start doing the same for ourselves.
"Sometimes you don't really mean it, but as you continue referring to yourself as ugly, you are going to believe it because words carry weight."
It is high time young people prioritise their mental health.
The government and educational institutions must prioritise mental health education, enforce supportive laws and create safe spaces where young people can express themselves without the fear of being judged.
With these changes, we can create a society where self-love is rooted in our culture.
PAVITHRAA PANCHABI
Batu Caves, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times