Guest of honour: Tuanku Zara (centre) being greeted on her arrival at the Mental Health Forum 2024 at Wisma WIM in Kuala Lumpur. — AZHAR MAHFOF/ The Star
PETALING JAYA: Mental health challenges are placing a heavy burden on the Malaysian economy, largely due to workplace stress, job insecurity, and burnout, according to an expert.
Consultant psychiatrist Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj revealed that in 2018 alone, Malaysia lost RM14.46bil in productivity due to mental health-related issues, amounting to 1% of the nation’s gross domestic product.
Globally, he noted that the economic toll is even higher, with workplace depression and anxiety costing the global economy an estimated US$1 trillion (RM4.5 trillion) in a year.
Dr Mohanraj emphasised the need to tackle these issues, saying that one in three Malaysians faces mental health challenges, a situation worsened by the demands of modern work life.
“These figures are drawn from recent studies, including the National Health and Morbidity Survey of 2019, which noted a rise in mental health problems across the nation.
“With over one million Malay-sian adults diagnosed with depression, the burden on both individuals and the economy is becoming impossible to ignore,” said the president of the Malaysian Mental Health Association yesterday.
He made these remarks at the Women’s Institute of Management Mental Health Forum 2024, which was attended by Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim.
Dr Mohanraj, who is a board member of the World Federation for Mental Health, underscored the global significance of this issue, pointing out that depression has become the leading cause of disability worldwide, surpassing cardiovascular diseases.
He said the economic costs associated with mental health challenges could escalate further if steps are not taken to address the situation.
Employers, according to Dr Mohanraj, play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of workplace-induced mental health issues.
To counter productivity losses, businesses must prioritise mental health by fostering a supportive work environment for employees, he said.
He recommended that employers assess and update their mental health policies to ensure they are comprehensive.
“A supportive workplace that fosters open communication, provides mental health services, and allows employees some flexibility is key to addressing these challenges,” said Dr Mohanraj.
He also highlighted the importance of training supervisors and managers to detect early warning signs of mental health issues, such as absenteeism, irritability, and withdrawal from social interactions.
These early indicators, if addressed promptly, can prevent further decline of an employee’s mental health, he added.
Dr Mohanraj stressed that the solution extends beyond merely offering mental health services.
“It involves creating a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help and participating in shaping workplace policies,” he said.
He noted that many employees might be mismatched with their roles or may overstate their abilities, which can lead to mental health deterioration.
Poor communication, vague organisational goals, and a lack of involvement in decision-making can further aggravate stress.
Dr Mohanraj suggested implementing flexible working hours, integrating mental health services into company health policies, and utilising mental health apps as effective tools for supporting employees.
He also called for increased participation of employees in shaping relevant policies to ensure they are both practical and sensitive to the needs of the workforce.
