Many Malaysians at risk of depression, says Dzulkefly


KUALA LUMPUR: About 39.5% of respondents to the MyMinda mental health screenings are at risk of experiencing depression, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

The Health Minister stated that 223,773 self-assessments were conducted via the MyMinda platform from its launch on Oct 10, 2023 to Jan 23.

He noted an increase in callers seeking emotional support and psychoeducation through the Talian Heal line compared to before.

"This indicates growing awareness among Malaysians to seek mental health support," he said in a written reply on Wednesday (Feb 26).

The Talian Heal 15555 helpline is run by Health Ministry counselling officers daily from 8am to midnight, including public holidays.

Dzulkefly added that the MyMinda platform in the MySejahtera app offers digital mental health screening and early intervention services.

"The module also provides public access to digital mental health services covering psychoeducation and self-care," he said.

The minister was responding to Young Syefura Othman (PH-Bentong), who asked about MyMinda's effectiveness in identifying and assisting those with depression.

Those needing help can contact: Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or WhatsApp 019-261 5999); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (WhatsApp 0111-959 8214); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, or visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for details).

 

 

 

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