Malaysian artiste Karl Shafek once poured petrol on himself when he had depression


Karl Shafek regularly goes for counselling sessions as a way of maintaining a positive mindset. Photo: Karl Shafek/Instagram

From the outside looking in, no one would have known that Malaysian celebrity Karl Shafek has been struggling with depression for the past two years.

Karl admitted that when his depression got the better of him, he had gone as far as doing certain things that he would later regret.

He said: "I kind of wanted to end the pain. I had lost control ... used to drive my car unconsciously and even poured petrol on my body."

The former television host opened up to mStar, The Star's Malay-language portal: "At the time, no one knew except family and close friends. It wasn't until I got permission from my doctor that I dared to talk about it to the public."

He previously revealed in 2019 that he was diagnosed with depression.

Thankfully, Karl assured that his condition is not as severe as before. "Although I have been on medication since experiencing the problems two years ago, I no longer experience the strange incidents like I had in the past," he explained.

In an effort to maintain a positive mental health, the 41-year-old still prioritises going for regular counselling sessions.

"I am still going for counselling sessions that have been set by the hospital. I feel happy to have seen some changes in myself," he added.

The Takdir Qismah actor said that he feels better when he's occupied with work, namely his clothing business. Karl had ventured into retail back in 2014 with his own line, Neonate Clothing.


Those suffering from mental health issues or contemplating suicide can reach out to the following organisations:
- Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935/ 014-322 3392)
- Talian Kasih (15999/ 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp)
- Jakim’s (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) family, social and community care centre (0111-959 8214 on WhatsApp)
- Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929 or go to befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers nationwide and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my).

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