Malaysia is grappling with a silent epidemic, where the toll on mental health is increasingly evident. Recent research has shed light on the dire consequences of neglecting mental well-being in this nation, where long working hours, inadequate sleep, and relentless stress have become common, as reported by News Strait Times. 

Overworked Nation:

According to Cost of Ignoring Mental Health Research, Malaysia stands as one of the most overworked countries in the world, with the average workweek extending to a grueling 45 hours, offering employees a mere two weeks of annual leave. In contrast, Australia boasts shorter workweeks of 33 hours, coupled with a generous month of annual leave.

Mental Health on the Decline:

Surveys conducted by both government bodies and private organizations have brought to light the alarming rise in mental health issues among Malaysians. Overwork, chronic sleep deprivation, and escalating stress levels have taken a toll on the population. 

The 2015 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) revealed that 29% of Malaysian adults suffered from some form of mental health disorder. This number escalated in the 2019 NHMS, where 2.3% of Malaysian adults were diagnosed with depression. However, the surveys do not specifically attribute these mental health issues to workplace-related factors.

The Economic Toll:

A groundbreaking report published in Lancet Psychiatry in 2020 by Dr. Chua Sook Ning estimated that mental health conditions in the workplace drained the Malaysian economy of an estimated RM14.46 billion in 2018.

Legal Framework:

Malaysia does have legal provisions aimed at safeguarding workers' mental health. The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA) explicitly mandates employers to prioritize the safety, health, and welfare of employees. Nevertheless, the challenge lies in the uneven implementation, often stemming from employers' lack of awareness or disregard for these provisions, as well as employees' unawareness of their own rights.

The Ongoing Stigma:

Despite improvements in mental health care, stigma and misinformation remain a significant hurdle in Malaysia. Only 20% of individuals grappling with severe mental health issues seek professional help. Significantly, 54% of this group initially turns to traditional healers. 

The toll of ignoring mental health issues in Malaysia is mounting, with both individual well-being and the nation's economy at stake. 

What are your opinions on this? Share your thoughts below. 

Source: NST