‘Depression cases in Malaysia doubled in five years’

BANTING, Malaysia (MNTV) – The issue of mental health in Malaysia is increasingly worrying, considering the significant increase in the previous five years, says the Prime Minister’s wife, Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

“It is estimated that one million Malaysians, aged 16 and above, are experiencing depression, compared to only 500,000 in 2019,” she said last week while officiating the National Entrepreneurial Group Economic Fund (TEKUN National) Wanita KASEH Programme. 

“The increase from 2.3 to 4.6 per cent clearly reflects the public health challenges that need urgent attention,” she said, as reported by Malay Mail. 

Dr Wan Azizah said the survey also reported that one in six children, aged five to 15, was affected by mental health issues, and she added that this was not just a number but a reality. 

She said this initiative (Wanita KASEH) also covers the entrepreneurial sector, especially among women, who not only need to take care of their physical health but also their mental health to survive and succeed in the increasingly challenging business world.

She said entrepreneurs who are physically fit and calm in spirit will be more focused, creative, and resilient in facing the pressures of the business world, which is infused with elements of competition almost constantly.

“Our busyness in going out to earn a living cannot be used as an excuse to neglect our own health. A healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, stress management and work-life balance are very important.

“Besides that, healthy and balanced women will also be more capable of leading their families and contributing to society,” she also said.