Category: News

Group sets up association to provide mental healthcare initiatives for B40, M40 community

February 7, 2024

Dr Mohanraj (seventh from left) and Gunaraj (third from right) during the launch of the Selangor Mental Health Association. KLANG: A group of mental health advocates have set up the Selangor Mental Health Association (SMHA) due to the rising need for mental healthcare advocacy in the state, says its president Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj. The … More Group sets up association to provide mental healthcare initiatives for B40, M40 community

Starstruck teens and the romance of suicide

February 4, 2024

Copycats are more likely influenced by celebrities who kill themselves than by films or TV shows, says a psychiatrist. PETALING JAYA: Celebrity suicides are a more likely influencer of teenage suicides than TV shows or feature films, according to consultant psychiatrist Dr Philip George. He told FMT the large media coverage of celebrity suicides could … More Starstruck teens and the romance of suicide

Mental health advocates renew call for special reps in Dewan Negara

February 4, 2024

Leading mental advocates have renewed their call for one of the vacancies in the Dewan Negara to include a senator covering mental health issues in the country. National Coalition for Mental Wellbeing chairperson Siti Subaidah Mustaffa is backing the call for improved representation. “It is very important that we have a mental health advocate in … More Mental health advocates renew call for special reps in Dewan Negara

This type of bipolar patient often appears outwardly normal

February 3, 2024

BIPOLAR disorder is a complex mental health condition characterised by extreme shifts in mood, energy levels and behaviour. Among the various types of bipolar disorder, high-functioning bipolar disorder is a subtype that often goes undetected or misunderstood due to its less extreme presentation.  Unlike classic bipolar disorder, individuals with high-functioning bipolar disorder can lead seemingly … More This type of bipolar patient often appears outwardly normal

All about me: Digital narcissism on the rise with social media use

February 3, 2024

DIGITAL narcissism is a phenomenon that has emerged in the age of social media and the internet. It refers to the tendency of individuals to seek validation and attention through their online presence, often at the expense of their real-life relationships and responsibilities.  This phenomenon is not a new concept, but it has become increasingly prevalent … More All about me: Digital narcissism on the rise with social media use

Stigma and discrimination: An ever present problem for people with disabilities

February 3, 2024

All over the world, stigma and discrimination is a prevalent experience for persons with psychosocial disability. ZERO Discrimination Day is an annual day celebrated on March 2 each year by the United Nations and other international organisations.  This day is especially meaningful for persons with disabilities including those with psychosocial disabilities. The day aims to promote … More Stigma and discrimination: An ever present problem for people with disabilities

Changing thoughts and behaviours

February 3, 2024

Cognitive behavioural therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are all linked. RECENTLY, I was approached to write about psychotherapy and its efficacy, rather than delving into matters concerning mental health policy and upscaling of services.  Therefore, I thought it was appropriate to write … More Changing thoughts and behaviours

Work from home trend impacting mental health

February 3, 2024

Clinical depression and generalised anxiety disorder are among issues spawned in remote work scenarios, says an expert. PETALING JAYA: The work-from-home concept, which gained popularity in recent times due to its flexibility, improved work-life balance and time saved in commuting between work and home, appears to have a darker reality. Malaysian Mental Health Association president … More Work from home trend impacting mental health

Depression may present differently in older adults

February 2, 2024

Depression should not be perceived to be a normal part of ageing. In fact, many older adults feel satisfied with their lives, despite having more illnesses or physical problems than younger people. However, it can be difficult to detect the symptoms of depression in senior citizens. This is as older people may have different presentations, … More Depression may present differently in older adults