We need an integrated approach to manage financial distress and mental health

With the end of the blanket loans moratorium coming up this September 30, the risk of household financial distress and the accompanying mental health effects will be high. – 123rf.com

IN April this year, a month after the first movement control order came into force, (social think tank) The Centre initiated a study to understand how the lockdown was affecting the mental health of ordinary Malaysians. Among the key findings was that those who reported decreased incomes were more likely to report feelings of depression, anxiety and stress than those who experienced no change or improvements in income.

Although Malaysia’s official unemployment rate is starting to show signs of improvement, the sense of financial stability on the ground is still fragile. With the end of the blanket loans moratorium coming up this September 30, the risk of household financial distress and the accompanying mental health effects will be high.