When people don’t know exactly what depression is, they can be judgmental
– French actress, Marion Cotillard
I’M depressed. How many times have such thoughts crossed your mind? How often have you said such thoughts out loud?
These two words carry significant weight, yet they are often uttered casually almost as if they have lost their gravity in today’s fast-paced world.
However, depression and mental health are far from casual matters as they are complex and nuanced issues that affect millions of people worldwide.
Depression is not just a fleeting sadness, it is a mental health disorder characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background.
While the exact causes of depression are not fully understood, a combination of genetic, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors often play a role.
Living with depression can be an overwhelming and isolating experience. It is like carrying an invisible burden that weighs you down day in and day out.
Tasks that were once routine may become daunting, and even the simplest decisions can feel insurmountable. Depression does not discriminate, and it can be challenging to recognise its presence in oneself or others.
Depression not only affects the individual experiencing it, but also has a ripple effect on their loved ones and society as a whole.
Relationships may strain, work performance can suffer, the economic burden of untreated depression is significant.
Statistics from Malaysia’s National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) reported that one in three Malaysians aged 16 and above experienced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
However, the stigma surrounding mental health issues including depression has perpetuated a culture of silence.
Many people hesitate to admit that they are struggling or to seek help due to fear of judgment or discrimination. This silence can exacerbate the suffering of those affected by depression, making them feel even more isolated and hopeless.
We must change this narrative as talking openly about depression is not a sign of weakness, but instead it is a sign of strength. It takes courage to acknowledge one’s struggles and seek help.
It also fosters understanding and empathy among communities thus helping to combat the stigma that often shrouds mental health issues.
On that note, Malaysia has taken several strides in addressing this matter with several mental health helplines and resources being available to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
For instance, Befrienders Malaysia is a well-established organisation that offers emotional support to individuals in distress. Through various branches across the country, they provide a 24-hour helpline service where trained volunteers offer a listening ear and emotional support.
Similarly, Talian Nur run by the Ministry of Health (MoH) is a helpline which offers counselling and support for various health-related concerns including mental health.
Recognising how academic pressure can take a toll on students’ mental well-being, various higher institutions of learning in the country are offering counselling services to their students.
Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment when it comes to mental health issues. What works for one person may not work for another.
The saying ‘it takes a village’ could not be more applicable when it comes to mental health. This is because creating safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences and help is essential.
It also requires a collective effort in breaking the culture of silence by sharing one’s experiences, offering a listening ear, and fostering an environment of empathy and acceptance. By doing this, we can be a beacon of hope for those grappling with mental health issues like depression.
The weight of depression is both personal and collective. It touches the lives of individuals and reverberates through our society.
The statistics may be alarming, but they also serve as a call to action – a reminder that change is possible.
By acknowledging the presence of depression, by talking openly about it, we shatter the silence that has held us back for far too long. We transform weakness into strength, isolation into community, and despair into hope.
Together, we can create a Malaysia where mental health is a priority, where no one suffers in silence, and where the two words, “I’m depressed,” no longer carry the weight of a hidden struggle but instead signal a courageous step toward healing and support.
