Mental health awareness workshop at Pilley Methodist Institute gathers 40 participants
SIBU: About 40 students from Pilley Methodist Institute (MPI) attended a mental health awareness workshop by Mental Health Association (MHA) Sibu branch recently.
MPI principal Hii King Kai remarked: “While college life may be exciting and full of new experiences, friendships and opportunities, it can also be very stressful due to academic pressure, social challenges and personal turmoil.
“In such challenging situations, most students may question if they have fallen into depression, especially before examinations or when it is time to submit an assignment.
“It is important that individuals learn to manage these emotional states and distinguish the difference between mood swings and more serious medical conditions that call for intervention.”
According to Hii, the workshop was not only meant to raise awareness, but also to equip students with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of mental health.
“What’s more important
While college life may be exciting and full of new experiences, friendships and opportunities, it can also be very stressful due to academic pressure, social challenges and personal turmoil. In such challenging situations, most students may question if they have fallen into depression, especially before examinations or when it is time to submit an assignment.
— Hii King Kai, MPI principal
is the ability to control our responses to stress in order to prevent ourselves from becoming trapped in destructive stress patterns that might lead to severe depression,” he said.
Hii also emphasised the equal importance of mental and physical health, and stressed that there is no shame in seeking help and that reaching out for support is the first step towards healing.
Additionally, he advised college students to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing to set an example for those around them.
“Together, we can create a culture of openness, empathy and support, where mental health is recognised, valued and prioritised,” he added.
The keynote speakers at the programme were Sibu Hospital’s head of psychiatry and mental health division Dr Wong Siong Teck and psychiatrist Dr Hii Kae Lih.
Dr Wong discussed topics on maintaining good mental health, stress management, coping skills and relaxation techniques, while Dr Hii spoke about mental health issues and disorders.
Also present was MHA Sibu chairman Kapitan So Teck Kee.