State Environment, Chinese, Indian and Siamese Affairs, Health and Unity Committee Chairman Dr Leong Yong Kong, however, said only a small fraction of the total number were diagnosed with mental disorders.

According to him, this year alone, there were 10 mental patients placed at psychiatric wards in several hospitals in the state, with five patients at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital (HSB), four at the Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital (HSAH) and one at the Kulim Hospital.

“As for the number of psychiatrists, there are five at HSB, four at HSAH and one at the Kulim Hospital,” he said in reply to a question from Dr R Krishnamoorthy (PKR-Bukit Selambau) today.

Leong said anyone could experience mental health problems, such as emotional disorders and depression, while mental disorders, like schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, chronic depression and personality disorders, would only be suffered by certain people.

Leong said the study also found that most mental health problems were recorded among families with low-income earnings and living in rural areas.

The study also revealed that the prevalence of mental health problems was highest among those aged 16 and above as well as women.

“There are many contributing factors to the problem, including financial and economic constraints, relationship problems, lack of parenting skills, physical illness, and chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.”

As such, he said the state government had taken several preventive measures to raise mental health awareness among the public, including through exhibitions and talks about mental health as well as stress management.

“Mental health screening tests are also carried out at health clinics (in the state) and schools to identify mental health problem cases. If any, that person will be given counselling and referred to a psychiatrist.”