JOHOR BARU: A total of 2,777 individuals in Johor have received follow-up mental health treatment at government health clinics across the state between January and August this year.<\/p>\n
Johor Health Department director Dr Mohtar Pungut Ahmad said that based on mental health screenings, 1,140 individuals were referred to health clinics for further assessment.<\/p>\n
He added that 118 cases were referred to hospitals for evaluation and treatment.<\/p>\n
He said Johor Baru district recorded the highest number of mental health cases in the state, with 621 individuals receiving treatment.<\/p>\n
“According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) report in 2019, an estimated 970 million people worldwide live with mental disorders,” he said.<\/p>\n
“In Malaysia, the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 found that 4.6% of Malaysians aged 15 and above experience depression, which is equivalent to nearly one million people,” he added.<\/p>\n
Dr Mohtar said this after officiating the state level 2025 World Mental Health Day celebration and the opening of Mentari Johor Baru at UTC Galeria Kotaraya here on Tuesday (Oct 14).<\/p>\n
He added that at Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA) Psychiatric Clinic, the number of mental health patients seeking treatment has increased by 90% over the past 10 years, from 2014 to 2024.<\/p>\n
“These figures show the growing need for accessible mental health services, not only at the national level but also here in Johor,” he said.<\/p>\n
Dr Mohtar added that mental health patients come from all walks of life and across a wide age range.<\/p>\n
“We have treated patients as young as seven years old and as old as 90.<\/p>\n
“Some may have experienced trauma such as abuse, bullying, loss or disasters,” he said, adding that the rise in reported cases could also reflect greater public awareness.<\/p>\n
He also said that factors contributing to mental health problems include genetics, environment, economic pressure, family issues, and trauma.<\/p>\n
“People are no longer afraid or ashamed to seek help. Now, many are more open, including on social media, and they no longer judge those who come forward for treatment.<\/p>\n
“This reflects a positive shift in how society views mental health. While we do not have exact figures, we estimate that between 50% and 60% of patients gradually recover after receiving treatment,” he said.<\/p>\n
Dr Mohtar said the newly opened Mentari Johor Baru centre not only provides clinical treatment but also offers psychosocial rehabilitation.<\/p>\n
This includes employment support programmes and confidence-building activities.<\/p>\n
He added that Mentari centres are already operating in Pasir Gudang, Pontian, Segamat, Batu Pahat and Muar.<\/p>\n
“The opening of Mentari Johor Baru is expected to reduce congestion at HSA\u2019s Psychiatric Clinic.<\/p>\n
“Data shows that the number of visitors to Mentari Johor Baru has more than doubled between Jan and July this year.<\/p>\n
“This marks a new milestone in our efforts to end stigma, empower patients and build a more inclusive and compassionate community,” he said.<\/p>\n
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