KKM Urges M’sians To Not Neglect The Mental Health Of Children & Adolescents As Up To 20% Have Issues

The 21st century has proven to be a breakthrough in terms of technological advances and much more, however mental health issues are growing day by day, especially among children and adolescents. 

Recently, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Dr Noor Azmi Ghazali said that the mental health of children and adolescents is one of the most neglected health issues globally.

He explained that the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that 10 to 20% of children and adolescents suffer from poor mental health.

“This is before the Covid-19 pandemic and involves those aged from zero to 18 years old.”

“According to the 2019 National Health Mobility Survey, about 424,000 children in Malaysia have mental problems, but most of them did not seek help.”

Noor Azmi said that one in 8 adolescents aged 10 to 19, and one in 20 children aged five to nine years old were estimated to have a mental disorder (mainly depression) including developmental disorder (abnormal or delayed mental or physical development).

“Notably, suicide is one of the leading causes of death among adolescents aged 15 to 19. Among the risk factors for poor mental health include exposure to violence, peer victimisation, bullying, loneliness, and social isolation,” he added.

He also said that poor mental health can profoundly impact children’s general health, learning abilities and participation, thus limiting opportunites to achieve their full potential.

“Those affected require careful support to develop their social and emotional skills to lead a healthy lifestyle,” he stated.

Noor Azmi was giving a speech at the launching ceremony of Malaysia Country Report and Infographic 2022: Strengthening Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Systems and Services for Children and Adolescents in East Asia and the Pacific Region.

Any individual suffering from depression or stress can contact the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Service (MHPSS) at 03-29359935 or 014-3223392 or Talian Kasih 15999/WhatsApp Talian Kasih at 019-2615999.

For those who are suffering, do reach out to someone you can trust.

Also read: 5 Other Mental Illnesses M’sians May Suffer In Silence Other Than Depression & Anxiety