MINDTALK

BY DR ROZANIZAM ZAKARIA

Dr Rozanizam Zakaria is a Psychiatrist and Assist Prof in psychiatry from the International Islamic University Malaysia ( IIUM ). He currently works in Perth , Australia as part of his fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry .

Immersed in the field , I witnessed firsthand the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals grappling with mental health issues across diverse communities , especially in the context of child and adolescent psychiatry . Australia , like many developed nations , confronts a complex array of factors contributing to its mental health burden , including socioeconomic disparities , cultural stigmas , and gaps in accessible care .

Against this backdrop , one thing that strikes me the most is the role of non-governmental organisations ( NGOs ) as a critical component in addressing the evolving needs of Australia ’ s mental health population , both in preventative efforts and intervention strategies . This is something that we have started seeing developing more in Malaysia . However , of course , there is always something for us to learn and adapt from others ’ experiences .

Like the global trend of mental health , it has become evident that Australia is facing a mounting burden of mental health issues , with rates of anxiety , depression , and other disorders on the rise . According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics ( ABS ), 42.9 per cent of people aged 16 – 85 years had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life , with anxiety being the most common group ( 17.2 per cent of people aged 16 – 85 years ). Youths were among most significantly affected , with 38.8 per cent aged 16 – 24 years having had a mental disorder for 12 months .

These statistics underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to address the underlying causes and adequately support those affected . However , significant challenges in the public sector hinder timely and comprehensive care delivery .

Capacity constraints and resource shortages strain mental health services , leading to lengthy wait times , limited accessibility and gaps in provision . Addressing these challenges

is critical in ensuring that individuals in need receive the support and treatment they require , underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts between governmental agencies , NGOs , and the broader community .

THE PIVOTAL ROLE OF NGOs

The crucial role of NGOs in mental health cannot be overstated , particularly in their proactive efforts towards prevention through community outreach and education . NGOs head various initiatives aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues , breaking down stigma , and promoting early intervention .

Through innovative campaigns , workshops , and outreach programmes , NGOs engage with diverse communities to educate and empower individuals to recognise signs of mental distress and seek help when needed . These efforts not only promote mental health literacy but also foster a supportive environment conducive to seeking timely intervention .

Research has shown that early intervention significantly reduces the severity and long-term impact of mental health issues , highlighting the pivotal role of NGOs in mitigating the burden of mental illness on individuals and society . Therefore , the public mental health system can focus more on those with the more severe spectrum of illness .

I have seen many patients benefit from services such as counselling , community support , carer training and psychoeducation provided by NGOs as part of their recovery process either prior to getting professional help or as part of their step-down recovery journey .

According to the National Mental Health Strategies ( NMHS ) for 2020-2022 , tabled in the Australian Parliament , among crucial areas of mental health that NGOs in Australia have been involved in include :

• Information , mutual support , self-help and advocacy

• Vocational and educational

• Individual and group psychosocial rehabilitation and support

• Housing and support options

• Respite , family and carer services One of the most prominent mental health

NGOs that play these roles in Australia is Beyond Blue . It actively provides support and resources to individuals , families , and communities affected by mental health issues . Founded in 2000 , Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness and understanding of mental health , reduce stigma , and promote early intervention and support for those experiencing mental health challenges .

FUNDING AND SUSTAINABILITY CONCERNS

The organisation offers a range of services , including helplines , online forums , information resources and educational programmes . Their support services are designed to assist people at all stages of their mental health journey , from providing immediate crisis support to offering ongoing guidance and encouragement for recovery and well-being .

Beyond Blue plays a vital role in advocacy and policy development , working to influence positive change in mental health policies and practices at the national level . It strives to create a more supportive and inclusive society for people affected by mental health conditions through campaigns , research initiatives , and partnerships with government agencies and other organisations .

Nevertheless , there is also a growing concern around funding and sustainability , as adequate resources are essential in maintaining and expanding these services . Long-term commitment and innovative funding models are vital to ensure the ongoing viability of mental health programmes and initiatives . The funds from the government , private sector and public certainly play huge roles in helping these organisations survive .

To learn from all these , Malaysia needs to start looking ahead and develop more opportunities for integrating and expanding mental health services in the community . By fostering collaboration between various stakeholders , including government agencies , NGOs , healthcare providers , and community organisations , we can build a more cohesive and comprehensive mental health system that meets the diverse needs of our population .

Embracing innovation , leveraging technology , and promoting community engagement via the help of NGOs are among key strategies for driving positive change and advancing mental health equity across the nation . – The HEALTH