Mental Health Crisis Helpline Receives 59,860 Callsimiento

Mental Health Crisis Helpline Reaches 59,860 Calls, Including Suicide Attempts

Background

The mental health crisis helpline, or HEAL Line 15555, has received a staggering 59,860 calls, including suicide attempts, from 2022 until yesterday, according to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

Emergency Cases

Of the total calls, 35,590 or 59 percent required immediate emotional support. This is a concerning statistic, as it highlights the urgent need for effective mental health services in Malaysia.

Suicide Attempts

A total of 336 cases involved suicide tendencies, with 198 of these cases involving individuals who were actively contemplating suicide. This is a stark reminder of the gravity of the mental health crisis facing our nation.

Government’s Commitment to Mental Health

The Health Ministry (MOH) is committed to addressing mental health issues, including those at the workplace. MOH has established the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health to coordinate mental health programmes and services across ministries at the national level.

Occupational Psychological First Aid

In collaboration with the Human Resource Ministry, MOH has developed the Occupational Psychological First Aid module to train industry workers in mental self-care and psychological first aid at the workplace. This initiative aims to empower employees to support their colleagues and prevent mental health issues from arising.

Community Empowerment

MOH has also launched the Komuniti Minda Sejahtera or K-MindSet programme to empower communities in mental health awareness. This initiative aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and provide support to those struggling.

International Perspective

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) reported that 15 percent of working individuals experience mental health issues. This statistic underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health in the workplace.

Conclusion

The HEAL Line 15555 has received a distressing number of calls, including suicide attempts. The government’s commitment to addressing mental health issues is crucial in tackling this crisis. By providing training for industry workers and empowering communities in mental health awareness, we can work towards a healthier and more supportive society.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many calls has the HEAL Line received?
   The HEAL Line has received 59,860 calls, including suicide attempts, from 2022 until yesterday.
2. What percentage of calls required immediate emotional support?
   59 percent of calls required immediate emotional support.
3. How many cases involved suicide tendencies?
   336 cases involved suicide tendencies, with 198 cases involving individuals actively contemplating suicide.
4. What is the Occupational Psychological First Aid module?
   The Occupational Psychological First Aid module is a training programme that aims to train industry workers in mental self-care and psychological first aid at the workplace.
5. What is the Komuniti Minda Sejahtera or K-MindSet programme?
   The Komuniti Minda Sejahtera or K-MindSet programme is a community empowerment initiative that aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and provide support to those struggling.