Stop judging, start listening to those struggling, says Perak Health director
IPOH: Stigma surrounding mental health and suicide must be addressed by changing society's approach from judging people to understanding and supporting them, said Perak Health Department director Datuk Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha.
Perak Health Department director Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha has called for a shift in societal approach towards mental health and suicide, urging people to move from judgment to understanding and support. Speaking at the national-level World Self-harm Prevention Day event, Dr Feisul emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for individuals experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, encouraging them to speak up and receive appropriate help.
He highlighted the rising prevalence of depression among adults and children, as well as the increase in suicide rates, stressing the need for early detection, family and community support, and access to appropriate interventions. Dr Feisul also noted the importance of strategic cooperation beyond the health sector, including safe and responsible media reporting on suicide, to strengthen inter-sectoral efforts in suicide prevention.
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