THE Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has advised the public to seek professional help if they are suffering from depression.
“We are deeply concerned as untreated depression can lead to destructive habits or behaviour such as substance abuse, addictions, self-harm and even suicide,” said MMA president Dr Koh Kar Chai in a statement on Monday (Sept 20).
“It is important for the public to be aware that depression is a treatable medical illness and they can be helped by a professional.
“They should also not worry about cost in treatment as there is affordable treatment through the services provided by the health Ministry through the specialist clinics in the government hospitals, primary health centres throughout the country and also the community mental health centres.”
Depression is a mood disorder which causes persistent feelings of sadness and lack of interest which can affect how a person thinks, feels and behaves.
It can lead to a variety of emotional, physical and cognitive problems that can prevent a person from performing daily activities and leading a normal life.
Treatment for depression which involves medications, psychotherapy and strengthening social aspects of a person’s life will be tailor made according to each individual’s condition depending on the level of the severity of depression after being assessed by a professional.
Incidences of depression had been rising steadily over the years. However, it has escalated tremendously since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the movement control orders (MCOs), with people having lost their families, livelihoods and homes.
“We strongly advise that the public reach out for professional help if they are feeling down over a prolonged period.
“As a first step, they can call the Befrienders hotline, visit one of the Community Mental Health Centres (also known as Mentari) or a Primary Health Centre nearest to them.
“Private General Practitioners are also a good option to seek initial help from as they will also be able to do the preliminary screening and help with the referral if specialist help, in this case a Psychiatrist is needed,” said Koh.
Patients can also make an appointment to consult with psychiatrists practising in private hospitals or running their own clinics.
According to Koh, various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are providing Psychological First Aid (PFA) with the aim to reduce stress symptoms and assist in healthy recovery following a traumatic event.
Meanwhile, there is also an urgent need to focus on depression especially in addressing the issue of suicide.
It was recently reported that Malaysia recorded a total 2,426 cases of suicide from 2018 to July 31, 2021.
Of this total, 679 involved emotional stress while 385 were related to financial problems.
MMA also urges the public to call any one of the carelines compiled by the National Coalition for Mental Wellbeing (NCMW) for help.
Initiated by Rotary Malaysia, the NCMW is composed of various organisations which have come together to work on the mental health issues in Malaysia.
MMA is also a part of the NCMW. – Sept 21, 2021
