Malaysians should not treat stress lightly, as accumulated stress can contribute to psychiatric illness.
Psychiatry medical officer Dr Balqis Muhamad Kasim said anxiety and depression were among mental health-related problems that could arise if long-term stress and the high demands of life are not properly addressed and managed.
“There are multiple factors that can lead to mental health issues. When it comes to stress, there are things that we cannot control, and this can induce stress.
“Stress and anxiety can be induced, especially when you get stuck in traffic, causing you to be late for work. Stress can build up, especially if this is a daily occurrence,” she said.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa revealed in the Dewan Rakat today that those living in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya experienced depression and anxiety the most.
Dr Zaliha said a total of 336,900 people were screened nationwide in 2022, and 70 per cent of those screened in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya suffered mental health issues.
The minister said among some of the factors were the high cost of living, and relationship issues with parents and their peers.
Dr Balqis admitted that there were those who were not ready to seek intervention at psychiatric clinics, as they felt that they could manage their problems themselves, or that their problems were not serious.
“The awareness of mental health issues differs from generation to generation. It is easier for young adults to go to a psychiatric clinic compared to those aged 30 and above.
“The older ones feel a bit embarrassed to seek help, unlike the younger ones who often seek out early intervention,” she said.
Dr Balqis added that medication was also not the only solution.
“There are those whom we feel would benefit, if referred to a clinical psychologist. They will be taught stress management and relaxation techniques.
“There are also private clinical psychologists, but cost may be an issue. The simplest thing to do is to visit our Klinik Kesihatan for a basic depression and anxiety screening.”
She said if scores recorded during the screening were alarming, then the patient would be referred to a psychiatric clinic.
“Medication will be prescribed if required, and therapy will also be given. The treatment must go hand-in-hand,” she said.
“People should not feel ashamed to seek treatment. Some may think they can cope, but they do not realise that their actions affect those around them, especially their loved ones.”
Dr Balqis added stress too, could develop into irritability, which can affect others.
“There are those who come to us seeking treatment for depression. But they do not come in depressed. Some come in because they were agitated, including being angry over the smallest of issues.
“There are those who cannot cope with stress. When stress sets in, they will get into an ‘agitated state’ and this can affect their work and family dynamics,” Dr Balqis said.
