JOHOR BARU: A total of 2,777 individuals in Johor have received follow-up mental health treatment at government health clinics across the state between January and August this year.
Johor Health Department director Dr Mohtar Pungut Ahmad said that based on mental health screenings, 1,140 individuals were referred to health clinics for further assessment.
He added that 118 cases were referred to hospitals for evaluation and treatment.
He said Johor Baru district recorded the highest number of mental health cases in the state, with 621 individuals receiving treatment.
"According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) report in 2019, an estimated 970 million people worldwide live with mental disorders," he said.
"In Malaysia, the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 found that 4.6% of Malaysians aged 15 and above experience depression, which is equivalent to nearly one million people," he added.
Dr Mohtar said this after officiating the state level 2025 World Mental Health Day celebration and the opening of Mentari Johor Baru at UTC Galeria Kotaraya here on Tuesday (Oct 14).
He added that at Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA) Psychiatric Clinic, the number of mental health patients seeking treatment has increased by 90% over the past 10 years, from 2014 to 2024.
"These figures show the growing need for accessible mental health services, not only at the national level but also here in Johor," he said.
Dr Mohtar added that mental health patients come from all walks of life and across a wide age range.
"We have treated patients as young as seven years old and as old as 90.
"Some may have experienced trauma such as abuse, bullying, loss or disasters," he said, adding that the rise in reported cases could also reflect greater public awareness.
He also said that factors contributing to mental health problems include genetics, environment, economic pressure, family issues, and trauma.
"People are no longer afraid or ashamed to seek help. Now, many are more open, including on social media, and they no longer judge those who come forward for treatment.
"This reflects a positive shift in how society views mental health. While we do not have exact figures, we estimate that between 50% and 60% of patients gradually recover after receiving treatment," he said.
Dr Mohtar said the newly opened Mentari Johor Baru centre not only provides clinical treatment but also offers psychosocial rehabilitation.
This includes employment support programmes and confidence-building activities.
He added that Mentari centres are already operating in Pasir Gudang, Pontian, Segamat, Batu Pahat and Muar.
"The opening of Mentari Johor Baru is expected to reduce congestion at HSA’s Psychiatric Clinic.
"Data shows that the number of visitors to Mentari Johor Baru has more than doubled between Jan and July this year.
"This marks a new milestone in our efforts to end stigma, empower patients and build a more inclusive and compassionate community," he said.
