KUALA LUMPUR: The stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness is a major hurdle that makes it difficult for Malaysians to seek psychological treatment and for the Health Ministry to reach out to them.
Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said, due to the negative perception that many had of mental illness, it was not uncommon for the public to make derogatory remarks when they passed by a psychiatric ward.
“This should not happen as these people need help. The stigma puts pressure on patients and worsens their mental health problems,” he said in Dewan Rakyat today.
Dr Dzulkefly said the dissemination of accurate information about mental health to the community was crucial as this would encourage patients to seek assistance and treatment from medical professionals.
He said the ministry would step up efforts to educate the public through social media and continue to carry out mental health campaigns.
“We will focus on the Preventive Depression campaign, ‘Eradicate Stigma’ on health and mental illness and ‘Love Life, Turn on Hope’ (to prevent suicide),” he said.
At the health clinic level, Dr Dzulkefly said screening tests were being carried out to identify early signs of depression in expecting mothers. Depression is common in women during pregnancy and following childbirth.
“Screening of expecting mothers will allow early intervention. In addition, the components of mental health skills are also included in the preparation course for pregnant women,” he said.
“Regular training will continue to be given to health professionals to improve their skills in handling mental health problems in patients.”