Mental Health Woes Set To Affect More Malaysians

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 1 (Bernama) -- The number of Malaysians with mental health problems is likely to rise and a third national survey on health and morbidity being conducted now will give a true picture of the situation.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad said the last survey done in 1996 showed 11 per cent of adults suffering from depression, anxiety and other psychological problems while 13 per cent of children were affected.
"Launched in April, the survey is expected to be ready by year-end," he said at the soft launch of the Healthy Mind Month 2006, here Tuesday.
He said efforts must be made to erase the stigma associated with people seeking treatment for problems linked to mental health.
"Malaysia currently has only about 240 psychiatrists but this should not hamper the authorities in addressing mental health issues in the country," he added. said.
The month-long campaign, organised by the ministry and Mental Health Foundation, will be launched by Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 10.
Dr Abdul Latiff said various challenges linked to modern lifestyle had resulted in people experiencing mental health problems.
Meanwhile, Johor's Permai Hospital director Dr Benjamin Chan said more Malaysians were beginning to cross the barrier of the stigma associated with seeking professional help to address mental problems.
He said this development came about from increased awareness and a slew of government facilities that allowed those concerned to seek help.
"Very often it is the friends and other patients who recommend (treatment), and also the government is opening up centres away from psychiatric hospitals," he said.
Plans are also afoot to establish the Mental Health Skills Training Centre in Ampang, Selangor, and a facility to house abandoned mental patients called "Healthy Mind Villa" in Jalan Belfield, Kuala Lumpur.