I REFER to The Star report dated Aug 11 under the headline “Suicides spike during MCO” (online at bit.ly/star_spike) and the need to keep an eye on our mental health problems. Mental health support organisation the Befrienders in Johor attended to 770 cases, which was a 41% increase over the previous period. We also have those that provide support for people facing a mental health crisis, including Fire and Rescue Department, Welfare Department counsellors, the Health Ministry’s mental health officers, Befrienders and social workers. Are we adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills to deal with mental health issues arising from crises like this pandemic? We need more help centres, and more personnel trained to provide support for those facing mental health issues.

Source: The Star August 15, 2020 00:22 UTC