According to a statement by the Health Ministry, the threat of mental health among the adolescents in Malaysia is, worryingly, becoming a trend, especially among those aged 15 and below.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said that the statistics showed that mental health problems involving the group (15 and below) rose to 13% in 1996, 19.4% in 2006 and 20% in 2011.
He said, “We are very worried about the worsening trend in mental health of teenagers and children because this will affect national development as they are national assets.”
He also said that the young ones these days are heavily influenced by the internet and communication technology, and it has reached a point where there is less parent-child interaction. Parents are busy with their careers; hence they don’t take the issue of technology playing an influence on their children’s mental health, as a serious issue.
Because of this, Datuk Liow said that the ministry would make efforts to tackle the problem, including preparing a national strategic plan on mental health and increasing the number of Community Health Centres from 2013.
According to the Sun Daily, the ministries plan, among others, would stress on the aspects of promoting mental health and smart partnerships involving various agencies and non-governmental organisations. By opening up more Community Health Centres, patients will be able to receive treatment in a more conducive environment as compared to hospitals. These Community Health Centres will offer services such as psychological support, counselling, and information on mental health.
"ExpatGo welcomes and encourages comments, input, and divergent opinions. However, we kindly request that you use suitable language in your comments, and refrain from any sort of personal attack, hate speech, or disparaging rhetoric. Comments not in line with this are subject to removal from the site. "
