Mental health issues in Malaysia

The state of mental health in Malaysia has become a critical public health issue, characterized by increasing prevalence rates of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and psychosocial stress. The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) indicates a notable rise in the incidence of mental health disorders among adults in Malaysia, with figures increasing from 11.2% in 2006 to 29.2% in 2015 Aris & Othman (2022). This uptick is indicative of a broader issue that has its roots in various socio-economic and cultural factors, particularly amplified by the stressors stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties (Bahar et al., 2024; , (Hamzah et al., 2023).

One of the primary contributors to mental health issues in Malaysia is the stigma associated with mental illness. Research by Hanafiah and Bortel emphasizes that stigma not only persists among the general public but is also observable among mental health professionals, negatively affecting the patient-provider relationship and impeding recovery (Hanafiah & Bortel, 2015). This stigma contributes to a reluctance among individuals to seek help, as they may fear discrimination or social repercussions. This hesitance is further exacerbated by cultural perceptions that regard mental health issues as a sign of personal weakness or a result of spiritual failings (Nasir et al., 2023; . Consequently, many Malaysians continue to suffer in silence, avoiding necessary treatment and support that could assist in alleviating their mental health struggles.

Access to mental health services is another significant challenge in Malaysia. Despite the existence of mental health policies and frameworks like the Mental Health Act established in 2001, disparities in access to care remain prevalent, particularly in rural areas where facilities are scarce (Khan et al., 2015). The shortage of trained mental health professionals and limited mental healthcare infrastructure hinder the provision of adequate support. Razali et al. report that the healthcare workforce in Malaysia faces critical challenges, including many healthcare workers being untrained in mental health caregiving, which leads to frustration among both patients and providers (Oranye et al., 2016). This gap highlights the urgent need for enhanced training for healthcare professionals and more robust mental health service frameworks in the country.

Youth mental health is particularly concerning, as highlighted by Hamzah et al., where stressors related to academic pressure, social expectations, and the impacts of the pandemic have taken a toll on young people’s well-being (Hamzah et al., 2023). The lockdowns during the pandemic caused social isolation, compounding existing mental health issues among adolescents and young adults. Chan et al. further elaborate on the school environment, noting that educators require specific training to effectively support students' mental health to address the rising incidence of anxiety and depressive disorders among students (Wong et al., 2023). By equipping educators with the right tools and knowledge, schools can become more resilient environments for students facing mental health challenges.

Furthermore, marginalized and disadvantaged groups in Malaysia, including migrant workers and refugees, are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. The systematic review by Paudyal et al. confirms that a significant proportion of migrants experience mental health problems, which are often exacerbated by their precarious living conditions and lack of access to healthcare services (Paudyal et al., 2020). Initiatives aimed at improving the mental health of these vulnerable populations are necessary, as they are often overlooked in broader mental health discussions.

Social media has emerged as a double-edged sword concerning mental health among Malaysian youth. While it creates avenues for connection, it also fosters instances of cyberbullying and unrealistic comparisons that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety (Halim et al., 2023). Studies have found that excessive use of social media platforms correlates with higher incidences of mental health issues among adolescents, emphasizing the need for awareness campaigns that highlight healthy online behaviors and coping mechanisms (Halim et al., 2023).

In the workplace, mental health issues are also gaining recognition, particularly post-COVID-19. Research indicates that employees in various sectors, including hospitality and education, report high levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, often due to the demanding nature of their jobs and lack of support from employers (Mazlan et al., 2023; , Ghazali et al., 2024). There is a growing acknowledgment of the importance of mental health awareness and support programs that can foster healthier work environments, thereby improving overall employee productivity and satisfaction (Esa et al., 2024).

The Malaysian government has begun to address some of these challenges through the implementation of policies that prioritize mental health care accessibility. However, without sufficient public awareness and education on mental health issues, stigma will likely continue to serve as a barrier to treatment (Nasir et al., 2023; , Rajagopal et al., 2023).

Comprehensive public health strategies are essential to raise awareness about mental health, combat stigma, and facilitate open discussions among communities.

In conclusion, the mental health landscape in Malaysia is complex and multifaceted, requiring a coordinated effort across sectors to improve outcomes. Addressing stigma, enhancing access to care, supporting youth, and advocating for marginalized communities must be prioritized. As Malaysia continues to grapple with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its socioeconomic aftermath, a robust mental health strategy that includes public awareness, training for healthcare professionals, and tailored community interventions is crucial for fostering a healthier, more resilient society.

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Mazlan, N., Sumarjan, N., Ahmad, K., Nazlan, N., & Suhartanto, D. (2023). Mind matters: exploring employees' mental health literacy in the hotel industry. Environment-Behaviour Proceedings Journal, 8(26), 465-472. https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v8i26.5126

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Paudyal, P., Kulasabanathan, K., Cassell, J., Memon, A., Simkhada, P., & Wasti, S. (2020). Health and well-being issues of nepalese migrant workers in the gulf cooperation council countries and malaysia: a systematic review. BMJ Open, 10(10), e038439. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038439

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Wong, Y., Ong, S., & Ooi, G. (2023). Educators’ roles and challenges in supporting tertiary education students’ mental health: a qualitative study in malaysia. The Journal of Mental Health Training Education and Practice, 18(6), 397-409. https://doi.org/10.1108/jmhtep-02-2023-0013