WITH the economic crisis we are facing, the government must ensure that there is sufficient funding to deal with the mental health issues faced during this time.
There must be allocation for support and treatment options for those suffering from mental illness and fatigue, including our frontliners.
Mental health is one of the most neglected and under-funded areas of public health. The importance of mental health cannot be understated – indeed, it has become even more pronounced during this Covid-19 pandemic.
In Malaysia, a recent survey found that 44% of Malaysians said their mental wellness has been affected since the pandemic began.
The unprecedented changes that we are experiencing as a result of the pandemic have a profound effect especially in relation to increased anxiety, depression and loneliness due to social isolation and the stress caused by loss of job or income and struggle to provide for one’s family.
Children are particularly vulnerable, falling behind as a consequence of schools being shut, a stop to co-curricular activities and limitations on interaction with their friends.
Some have also had to deal with increased abuse at home and the pressures of being in confined spaces.
We must not fail those who are vulnerable and we must eliminate the stigma surrounding those suffering from mental health issues.
Those who are suffering from mental issues should not feel alone. Let us not underestimate the significance of brotherhood and sisterhood in helping one other during these difficult times.
Let us look after ourselves and each other. – The Vibes, October 10, 2020
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is opposition leader and PKR president
