Mental health problems are more common among us than you think. Having been a taboo subject for decades if not centuries due to social customs to avoid activities or subjects related to mental health because people find them embarrassing or offensive. Many sufferers have to deal with blame and discrimination spread by misinformed public perception. Social stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health further add burden on the sufferer, causing them to feel ashamed and reluctant to seek the medical attention they need. However, it is not a condition that should be ignored or swept under the carpet.
While mental health problems were prevalent before the Covid-19 pandemic, the mental health crisis that emerged from the pandemic had a far more distressing impact on all of our lives. Many of us were confronted with psychological problems related to isolation, anxiety, loneliness, frustrations, addictions, insecurities, depression, fears, and worry.
In Malaysia, as many as one in 4 people have suffered from some form of mental disorder. According to a survey on mental health and wellness conducted by Rakuten Insight in Malaysia in May 2022, 59 percent of the respondents aged between 16 and 24 years indicated that they had a higher level of stress or anxiety in the past 12 months. On the other hand, 34 percent of respondents aged between 25 and 34 years indicated that they had the same levels of stress and anxiety in the past 12 months as before.
The silver lining is a reduction in the stigma surrounding mental health, with a realization of the importance of mental wellness. There is also more involvement from the government to revitalize policies and practices as well as from corporates who are now more willing to provide employee-assisted benefits related to mental health.
MENTAL HEALTH AFFECTS HOW WE
THINK, FEEL, AND ACT
Mental Health is made up of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in our daily lives. It is important to understand that experiencing these symptoms is not a sign of weakness, nor should you give up hope. In fact, all of us go through these feelings at some point in our day. Here are some early symptoms to watch out for:
Feeling sad of down
Feeling detached or alone
Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt
Feeling anxious or agitated
Extreme mood changes of highs and lows
Withdrawal from friends and activities
Significant tiredness, low energy, or problems sleeping
Procrastinating and taking longer to get things done
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to know that help is available and that you are not alone.
HOW TO BOOST YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
In addition to taking care of your physical health, it is important to take care of one's mental health, and this can be done by practicing self-care. Self-care can help manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact on a person's body and mind. If you are looking to boost your mood, handle your emotions better or build resilience, here are 8 self-care practices that can help you boost your mental health.
Although self-care is not a cure for mental health problems, understanding what causes or triggers your symptoms and what coping techniques work for you can help manage your mental health problems.
If you notice that your mental state is interfering with your ability to function at work, interact with family, and socialize with your friends or if it is causing you to contemplate suicide, it is best to seek help immediately. With the merging of health care and technology, telehealth now makes it possible for you to get help quickly and easily from the comfort of your home.
Follow these easy steps to book a virtual consultation with our mental health experts.
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