FOR students in rural and underserved communities, getting professional mental health support can be difficult when psychologists and other specialists are not readily available.
To bridge this gap, experts say teletherapy could potentially help bring specialised support to students remotely.
Prof Keng Shian-Ling, of Sunway University School of Psychology, said successful implementation of teletherapy in Malaysia depends on several safeguards, including reliable Internet access, private spaces within schools where students can speak confidentially, clear consent procedures involving parents where appropriate, and clear referral pathways for emergencies.
“If these safeguards are in place, teletherapy could become an important component of a broader school mental health system, particularly in East Malaysia and other underserved regions,” she said.
For students experiencing mild to moderate anxiety, depression or adjustment difficulties, Prof Keng said online psychological services could improve access to care.
“This can reduce travel time and allow specialist care to reach schools that otherwise have limited resources,” she said.
Likewise, Malaysian Mental Health Association president Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said teletherapy could be particularly useful for follow-up counselling, psychoeducation, parent and teacher consultations.
However, both experts stressed that teletherapy should complement, rather than replace face-to-face services.
“Students experiencing acute suicide risk, severe behavioural difficulties, safeguarding concerns or complex family situations often require in-person assessment and close collaboration with schools and caregivers,” Prof Keng said.
