THROUGH ART

seek treatment.

A National Health and Morbidity Survey in 2015 showed that about 4.2 million citizens, aged 16 years and above, or 29.2 per cent of the population, suffered from mental problems.

The number is alarming because it shows an increase of 11.2 per cent compared with 2006.

More troubling, the problem also involves students as the ratio of those facing mental problems has increased from one in 10 people in 2011 to one in five individuals last year.

Experts had cited anxiety and depression as the main causes of mental health problems among students.

Work-related stress is one of the most challenging issue due to the demanding contemporary work environment. It is common to encounter stress, but excessive and unmanageable stress can be damaging to an employee’s health as it affects their physical and mental wellbeing.

Poor mental health could increase a suicidal tendency.

According to Malaysian Psychiatric Association president professor Mohamed Hussain Habil, suicide rates have increased by 60 per cent in the past 45 years. It is estimated seven people attempt suicide daily in Malaysia, one daily in Singapore and 13 daily in Thailand.

Given the situation faced by Malaysian society and their typical behavioural characteristics, it is believed that art therapy could be the most useful and effective tool to assist those with mental health problems.

It is crucial for us to develop a systematic and greater promotion on the use of art therapy as a preventive and remedial tool for mental health treatment.