Fostering a culture of mental health openness at Monash
4 November 2024
by Joann Toh Suan Ee
Head of Counselling, Health and Wellness Services
Mental health challenges have become increasingly prevalent worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Studies show that more people are experiencing mental health issues, from stress and anxiety to depression and burnout, impacting not only personal wellbeing but also productivity, relationships and overall quality of life. Yet, stigma remains one major barrier that prevents many from seeking help. Fostering a culture of openness about mental health is crucial in enabling individuals to seek support. By promoting understanding and empathy, we can contribute to a more supportive community where mental health-related issues are treated with the same importance as physical health issues.
The current mental health situation in Malaysia
During the recent launch of National Counselling Month in October, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) Datuk Dr Noraini Ahmad reported a significant rise in mental health-related issues among Malaysians. According to the National Health and Mobility Survey (NHMS) 2023, one million individuals aged 16 and above have suffered from depression, with the rate doubling over the past four years. Among them, nearly half reported having suicidal thoughts. Additionally, one in six children faces mental health challenges, showing an increase from 424,000 children aged five to fifteen years in 2019 to over 922,000 in 2023.
There has also been a rise in suicide cases, with 1087 incidents recorded in 2023 compared to 981 in 2022. Among the contributing factors to suicidal ideation are psychosocial stressors, environmental influences, financial issues, limited social support and substance abuse. Mental health issues are now seen as one of the primary factors affecting individuals' physical and social wellbeing.
Mental health matters
We can agree that mental health is fundamental to our daily lives, influencing how we think, feel and interact with others. It impacts everything from health and relationships to the overall wellbeing of our life.
As awareness of mental health grows, understanding the importance of support is crucial, particularly in universities and workplace settings, where everyday pressures combined with personal and family challenges can impact wellbeing. By addressing these openly, we can foster a supportive culture that promotes resilience, understanding and openness to seek help when it’s needed.
Creating a supportive environment
Monash University places importance on the mental health and wellbeing of all as part of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) framework. Each of us plays a role in creating a safe environment where individuals feel heard, respected and empowered to discuss their mental health concerns.
Fostering openness around mental health requires active involvement from everyone. Starting with simple, supportive gestures, such as checking in on colleagues or sharing mental health resources, helps create a culture of empathy and safe space.
Monash’s commitment to mental health initiatives
Monash Malaysia’s Counselling, Health, and Wellness (CHW) department is committed to advocating mental health awareness and fostering a safe space for all. CHW has collaborated with various departments both on and off-campus to engage the community through interactive mental health initiatives. Recent collaborations include Mindful May with the Information Services Library and Learning Commons Department, Passage to Self-Love with Human Resources and a partnership with KPWKM by having the Psychosocial Support Truck on campus and at Waterfront Residence for mental health screenings.
Other initiatives are the Mental Health First Aid Training, the launch of a new Peer Student Supporter Program and working alongside the Department of Psychology, in particular with the Master of Professional Counselling program, offering support groups addressing various challenges students and young adults face.
Towards a supportive Monash community
A campus where mental health is not just an initiative but a shared commitment—a culture where conversations around wellbeing are encouraged and seeking support is seen as a strength.
Let us work together in championing this vision by building a community where openness about mental health thrives, ensuring every student and staff member feels seen, supported and empowered to prioritise their wellbeing.
Together, we can make a difference.