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

A shortage of psychiatrists

January 31, 2024

PETALING JAYA: There are enough mental health facilities in the country to support those in need, but more professionals in the field are needed, say experts. The stigma that continues to be associated with mental illness and its hospitals also discourages patients from accessing these facilities, they said. Universiti Malaya Specialist Centre consultant psychiatrist Assoc … More A shortage of psychiatrists

The worrying trend among Malaysians to be slim

April 11, 2023

Expert says slimming clinics must assume some responsibility for the potential mental health repercussions for their clients PETALING JAYA: If you’re a city dweller in Malaysia, you might have noticed one or two slimming clinics popping up around your neighbourhood. In fact, their advertisements are likely flooding your social media pages. According to Spherical Insights, … More The worrying trend among Malaysians to be slim