SIBU: It is important that everyone understands what depression is, how to recognise and overcome it.
Pointing this out, Deputy Minister for Housing, Public Health and Local Government, Michael Tiang Ming Tee said because depression does not discriminate, it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
“Depression is not merely feeling sad; it is a profound and persistent sense of hopelessness and despair. Among the key signs include persistent sadness, loss of interest, changes in sleep patterns, appetite changes, fatigue, and so forth.
“I think it is important that once these symptoms started to show up, get help immediately, so that you can cope with depression as soon as possible. Depression is a battle that everyone can win.
“However, it takes courage to lean on your support network who care about your well-being. Do not be afraid to seek help and professional guidance and treatment needed to manage depression effectively,” he said at the closing ceremony of a talk held in conjunction with the World Mental Health Day, at the premises of University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) here on yesterday (Oct 4).
Tiang, who is also the Pelawan assemblyman, made these remarks in his speech delivered by Penghulu Ting Tien Huat.
The event, which was organised by the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) Jalan Merdeka, Jalan Oya, Jalan Berjaya, Jalan Muhibbah & Pearl Garden in collaboration with Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) Teku and UTS Mandarin Club, attracted over 400 UTS students and members of the public.
It was conducted by Jason Zeck Lee, an internationally renowned psychologist who has shared his knowledge on depression across Taiwan and Malaysia.
Tiang believed it is important to break the chain of silence and help those who are battling with depression.
He said it is imperative that everyone can provide one another the support and encouragement needed for individuals to cope and find hope again.
Thus, he said open and honest conversations about mental health must be encouraged, and whether it is family, friends or even colleagues, ask them how they are doing, and really listen when they respond.
Sometimes, he stated, all it takes is a caring ear to make a world of difference.
“Hence, we must educate ourselves and others about depression to dispel myths and misconceptions. This knowledge empowers us to recognise the signs of depression in ourselves and those around us.
“We are not defined by our depression. We have the power to overcome this challenge and there are people who care about you and want to see you thrive. Let us all work together and be committed to make a difference in everyone’s life helping one another to cope with depression,” Tiang added.
UTS deputy vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Shahril Osman, who also spoke, pointed out that Jason’s insightful talk has shed light on the complexities of depression, particularly among the youth.
“As he shared his knowledge, he also shared hope – hope that through understanding and empathy, we can make a difference. Each one of us has a role to play. If you recognise the signs of depression in yourself or others, extend a helping hand. Your support might just save a life.
“The statistics are sobering – with almost one in three adults and over 12 per cent of children in Malaysia grappling with mental health issues, the urgency to address this challenge cannot be overstated,” Prof Shahril pointed out.
Chairman of JKKK Jalan Merdeka, Jalan Oya, Jalan Berjaya, Jalan Muhibbah & Pearl Garden, Kapitan So Teck Kee, who is also the chairman of KRT Teku; head of National Integration and Unity Department Sibu Division, Siti Nurfatimah Hussen; and president of UTS Mandarin Club, Rachel Chai Mei Yan were among those in attendance.
