SHAH ALAM - The way forward towards a community-based mental health approach is to empower the community by creating awareness and providing support for those with psychosocial disabilities.
Taylor’s University Impact Lab on Mental Health and Wellbeing director Professor Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said that communities can play a major role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
Stigma often arises from a poor understanding of mental health, cultural perceptions, and misconceptions about mental health conditions.
Dr Mohanraj pointed out that in Malaysia, individuals with mental illnesses were often hesitant to seek help due to the associated stigma.
"Even when help is available, there are sometimes long waiting lists. However, we have made significant progress compared to many other countries.
"While waiting times can be lengthy, we do have the facilities. Ironically, despite the establishment of these facilities, the biggest obstacle remains stigma.
"Stigma is distinct from discrimination; it can be a personal feeling or a prejudice against someone with a mental illness," he said.
Dr Mohanraj said that many mechanisms have not yet been implemented for individuals with mental illnesses, such as job promotions, despite competence and the ability to deliver according to job descriptions.
He emphasised that discrimination persists in many cases merely because individuals have previously been diagnosed with mental health issues or are taking medications for them.
"Some countries combat stigma not by constantly raising awareness or lecturing people, but by focusing on anti-discriminatory policies regarding mental health.
"When we take such actions, it automatically has an impact on reducing stigma. When you prioritise policies and regulations, it naturally prevents the practice of stigmatisation," he added.
In the workplace, he said an individual well-versed in matters of mental health may be aware of their chronic depression affecting their home or work environment, yet they might choose not to seek services to avoid employers discovering this information, fearing it could impact their future prospects.
"If these mechanisms were strengthened, discrimination based on mental health conditions would be significantly reduced. While the primary criterion remains the capacity to work, it should not be the basis for discriminating against individuals."
Dr Mohanraj also praised insurance benefits that allow individuals to seek mental health help, where panel doctors and companies were working towards incorporating mental health services.
This move is instrumental in normalising the concept of mental health, leading to more individuals seeking professional help instead of resorting to alternative treatments, he said.
"All of this contributes to normalising the concept. Consequently, people would be more inclined to consult mental health professionals rather than spend large sums on alternative treatments, which may include superstitious elements, often exacerbating the condition and delaying appropriate, evidence-based treatment.
"Stigma remains a significant issue that we must address, which is why community involvement is crucial. Establishing community support, acceptance, and understanding of mental illness is the most effective way to combat stigma, dispel myths, and challenge superstitions surrounding mental health issues.
"The most effective methods involve engaging with communities, not only in providing care for those with mental health conditions but also in working towards the long-term goal of reducing stigma and discrimination. We must collaborate with NGOs, community leaders, civil society movements, and organisations capable of playing a positive role at the community level. This can be challenging for government facilities to achieve," he said.