Befrienders Kuching holds first mental health carnival
KUCHING: Befrienders Kuching is holding its first mental health carnival themed ‘#LifeIsPrecious’ at Vivacity Megamall here until Sunday (April 14).
BandarKuchingMPDrKelvinYii who officiated at the launching with Befrienders Kuching chairperson Dr Rosliwati Md Yusoff yesterday lauded Befrienders for holding the carnival to spread awareness of mental health issues.
He expressed concern on issues related to suicide with more people who are not mentally ill having suicidal thoughts especially those in pain for a long period and depressed and lack support.
“Befrienders Kuching is here to support people in distress. Sarawak ranks fourth in Malaysia for mental health issues, mainly related to depression. 35 per cent of sufferers are 16 years and above while 16 per cent are below 15,” he said.
The mental health carnival aims to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention as well as services offered by Befrienders, according to a recent press statement.
Mental Health Association of Sarawak, Hospital Sentosa, Story Kuching, Unimas Faculty of Cognitive Science and Human Development and TST Cognitive Development Centre have exhibition booths at the carnival.
A counter at the carnival is collecting donations to fund the operation of Befrienders Kuching suicide prevention hotlines and e-mails as well as outreach programmes in schools and for the general public.
The public is invited to the carnival with stage performances, story-telling sessions and various activities.