While discussions surrounding mental health are becoming more widespread, many Malaysians, young and old, continue to suffer in silence. Many struggle to cope with the pressures of life and fear the stigma they may face should they decide to reach out for help. You’re not alone!
If you or someone you know is having a difficult time getting help, several helplines provide support for those battling mental health challenges. These services offer confidential assistance, and callers won’t even need to leave their homes or meet anyone face to face to speak to someone!
So, in conjunction with World Mental Health Day happening on October 10, here are a few Malaysian helplines that you, or a loved one, might find helpful if you ever need a listening ear.
1. Buddy Bear Helpline by Humankind (for kids & teens)
Buddy Bear was started during the Movement Control Order (MCO) as a secure space for children aged 6 to 18 to share whatever struggles they may be facing and let them express themselves. It’s also the first helpline dedicated to serving children in Malaysia!
If your child is struggling with loneliness, self-harm, stress, parental or sibling conflict, or anything else related to mental health, don’t hesitate to give them a call!
Contact hours: 6PM – 12AM (Daily)
Contact number: 1800-18-BEAR (2327)
More info: Website
2. Peer Listening Helpline by PT Foundation
PT Foundation is a non-profit organisation focusing primarily on issues surrounding sexual and mental health. Aside from running a helpline to give Malaysians an outlet to speak and share freely, they also run free HIV & STI tests regularly around Klang Valley.
Contact hours: 8PM – 11PM (Fridays to Sundays)
Contact number: 03-27876005 (English), 03-27876008 (Bahasa Melayu), 03-27876011 (Mandarin)
More info: Facebook
3. MIASA Malaysia Crisis Helpline
Mental Illness Awareness & Support Association (MIASA) was birthed by Anita Abu Bakar after her own struggles with mental health issues led her to realise how truly widespread mental health conditions are.
They also offer paid services such as counselling, mental health assessments, peer support, psychological services, and more. Many of their services are free for B40.
Contact hours: 24/7
Contact number: 1800 180 066 (call) / 03-97656088 (WhatsApp)
More info: Website
4. HEAL Helpline by Ministry of Health
Started in 2022, Help with Empathy and Love (HEAL) is a service by the Ministry of Health (MOH) that responds to calls and complaints related to mental health, suicidal behaviour, self-harm, panic attacks, and more. This helpline is operated by MOH counsellors.
Contact hours: 8AM – 12AM (Daily)
Contact number: 15555
More info: Website
5. Kasih Helpline by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development
Operating 24 hours a day, the Kasih Helpline functions as a single point of contact for Malaysians to submit questions, complaints, or applications. It offers a wide range of services related to abuse, counselling, protection, welfare, baby abandonment, adolescent social problems, and more.
Contact hours: 24/7
Contact number: 15999 (call) / 019 26 15999 (WhatsApp)
More info: Website
If you or anyone you know is struggling mentally or emotionally and you find it difficult to confide in those around you, give these helplines a call! You’re not alone and you don’t have to face this alone.
