Should mental health support be a fundamental right for all Malaysians?

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Mental Health Support Should Be a Fundamental Right for All Malaysians

Mental health support should be recognised as a fundamental right for all Malaysians, akin to the accessibility of physical healthcare. This perspective stems from the argument that maintaining both a healthy body and a healthy mind are essential aspects of overall well-being, and should not be contingent upon an individual's financial capacity. The current landscape reveals a significant gap, with many individuals unable to afford the high costs associated with therapy and medication, which can range into hundreds of ringgit per hour for sessions alone.
Routine Mental Health Check-ups and Accessible Tools

The proposition is made that mental health check-ups should become as routine and commonplace as regular visits for haircuts or dental examinations. Tools like the DASS test, a straightforward self-reporting instrument, are highlighted as valuable starting points for individuals to gauge their levels of depression, anxiety, and stress before consulting a therapist. While not a substitute for professional diagnosis, such tests offer a preliminary understanding and a basis for discussion during consultations, making the initial step towards seeking help less daunting.
Barriers to Affordable and Accessible Care

Despite increased conversations around mental health, particularly amplified during the pandemic, significant hurdles remain in accessing affordable care. Local insurance providers have been noted for their reluctance to offer comprehensive coverage for mental health services. Consequently, public hospitals represent the most economical avenue for treatment, yet their accessibility is often limited for the majority of the population, creating a disparity in care availability.
Workplace and Societal Stigma

The societal stigma surrounding mental health continues to be a pervasive issue, impacting workplaces and hiring practices. It is suggested that employers could implement supportive measures, such as reducing the requirement for medical certificates for all sick days or introducing a limited number of "no questions asked" days. These initiatives could serve as interim solutions until the stigma is dismantled, preventing mental health issues from becoming grounds for discrimination in employment. The article also touches upon the long-standing need for the decriminalisation of suicide, a move that was particularly pertinent during the pandemic when mental health deteriorated for many.

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Should mental health support be a fundamental right for all Malaysians?

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