Counselling and mental health services and hotlines in Malaysia
With the pandemic, lockdowns, and a whole lot of other uncertainties going on in the world right now, it’s understandable that a lot of people aren’t in the best state of mind.
Whether you’re a fresh grad anxious over unemployment woes, a working mum overwhelmed with the working from home arrangement, or someone suffering from loneliness from not seeing your loved ones for months on end now, don’t be afraid to speak out and seek help.
Here are 8 counselling and mental health services that may be able to make you feel better during this tough period.
1. Centre for Psychological and Counselling Services by HELP University – diagnoses and assessment services
Image credit: Google Maps
HELP University’s Centre for Psychological and Counselling Services (CPCS) is operated by a small team of qualified professionals.
Apart from counselling, CPCS also provides psychotherapy and psychological assessment. They are equipped to diagnose adolescents and children who are suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD, anxiety, delinquency, and low self-esteem, among many others.
CPCS’s treatments and therapies, starting at RM50, include family therapy, expressive art therapy, anger management, behavior intervention, and the like.
Address: Level 10, Wisma HELP, Jalan Dungun, Medan Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur (Damansara)
and CPCS Subang 2, Level 6, Block B, HELP University Subang 2, Persiaran Cakerawala, Seksyen U4, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor (Shah Alam)
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-5.30PM | Sat 9AM-1PM (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
Telephone: 03-2096 1212 (Damansara) and 03-7849 3200 (Shah Alam)
CPCS @ HELP University’s website | Instagram
2. Befrienders – anonymous counselling available
Image credit: @befrienderskl
The Befrienders don’t need any introduction. As one of the main suicide hotlines in Malaysia, they’re an NGO that offers emotional support 24/7 to people who are distressed, distraught, lonely, or troubled with suicidal thoughts.
Their trained volunteers are only a free phone call away, and if you feel unnerved about opening up to someone you don’t know, rest assured that your conversations are strictly confidential. In fact, your identity can remain anonymous as you’re not required to share your name.
For those who prefer communicating behind a screen, you can also email them at sam@befrienders.org.my. Or, if you’d like a more personal experience, there’s the option of scheduling an appointment for a face-to-face session as well.
Address: 95 Jalan Templer, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Telephone: 03-7627 2929 (24 hours, daily)
Website
3. Malaysian Mental Health Association – mental health first aid courses available
Image adapted from: CS Wong and Hannah Yeoh
The Malaysian Mental Health Association is a non-profit voluntary organisation managed by a committee of professionals.
Apart from providing psychological support services, they are also well-versed in psychiatric rehabilitation programmes and caregiver support services.
If you’re caring for a loved one with mental illness and feeling overwhelmed, you can join their basic mental first aid training courses from RM600/4 sessions – group and student discounts are available.
Address: The Mind Hub, TTDI Plaza, Block A Unit 2-8, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-5PM (Closed Saturdays and Sundays)
Telephone: 03-2780 6803
Website | Facebook
4. The Mind Faculty KL – multidisciplinary care team
Image credit: Tricia Ng
The Mind Faculty is a private mental health clinic offering different areas of psychiatric, psychological, counselling, and therapy services. These include psychological assessment, couples counselling, addiction treatment, eating disorder care, clinical hypnotherapy, and many more.
Appointment rooms
Image credit: Joyce Cuu
As it’s managed by a group of certified specialists, behaviorists, psychiatrists, and psychologists, you can be certain that you’ll be getting high-quality services backed by years of experience and knowledge.
Address: Suite 11-G & 11-1, Jalan Solaris 4, Solaris Mont’ Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-9PM | Sat 8AM-7PM (Closed on Sundays)
Telephone: 03-2780 6803
The Mind Faculty’s website | Facebook | Instagram
5. HumanKind Community Counselling – helps marginalised communities
Image credit: HumanKind
HumanKind is a social enterprise that organises workshops, retreats, and initiatives for vulnerable and at-risk communities, such as orphans, victims of physical and sexual abuse, people living with HIV/AIDS, the urban poor, refugees, asylum seekers, and other marginalised groups of society.
HumanKind also provides counselling services conducted by a team of trained counsellors if you need to talk to someone about anything at all. Just give them a call beforehand to book an appointment before heading down to meet the counsellor face to face.
Alternatively, their online Buddy Bear project hotline for children in crisis during the pandemic is also available daily from 6PM-12AM at 1800-18-2327 or on Facebook Messenger.
Address: Unit 3-29, Block B, Level 3, MAHSA Avenue, Jalan Ilmu, 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 9AM-9PM, Daily (By appointment only)
Telephone: 12-974 2600
HumanKind’s website | Facebook
6. Soul Mechanics Therapy Center – art therapy, fitness coaching, and career advice too
Image credit: Soul Mechanics Therapy Center
Soul Mechanics is a private mental health establishment whose services include individual, couple, and group counselling, art therapy, psychiatry, child psychology, and more.
They also have a dedicated career development programme which provides career assessment for those who feel lost in their professional lives.
And if you’re struggling with body issues, Soul Mechanics has a certified fitness instructor on their team that can help with your fat-loss, personal fitness, and nutrition goals.
Address: 57-1, Jalan PJU 5/20 The Strand, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor,
Opening hours: 10AM-7PM, Daily
Telephone: 12-722 9211
Website
7. Cara Cara – for youth, couples, and families
Image credit: @caracara.space
Cara Cara is managed by a team of certified and registered young therapists, and perfect for youths who prefer to talk to somebody of their own age.
Most of their therapists specialise in youth therapy, while also including other areas of expertise in their services such as couples and family therapy, and hypnotherapy.
You can opt to attend Cara Cara’s therapy sessions from RM50 in person at their private office suite, or schedule a video call with them if that’s what you’re more comfortable with. Pick your preferred therapist by scrolling through their profiles on their website, then simply email them or send a Telegram message to book your appointment.
Address: Co-labs, Level 2, Lot 2F-33, Tropicana Gardens Mall, 2A, Persiaran Surian, Tropicana Indah, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 10AM-10PM, Daily
Cara Cara’s website | Facebook | Instagram
8. MentCouch Psychology Centre – yoga mindfulness sessions available
Image credit: MentCouch Psychology & Wellbeing Centre Kuala Lumpur
MentCouch Psychology Centre is a new mental health clinic in KL operated by a group of certified clinical psychologists, trained therapists, and registered counsellors.
Their wide range of services and assessments include adult and children counselling, couple therapy, expressive art therapy, mindfulness training, and mental health assessment, just to name a few.
MentCouch’s team of professionals also includes an internationally certified yoga instructor, perfect for yogis who are interested to try out their guided mindfulness yoga or meditation session.
Address: Suite 1-02, 1st Floor, Menara Atlan, 161B, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-5.30PM | Sat 9AM-1.30PM (Closed on Sundays)
Telephone: 03-2712 9372
Website
List of counselling and mental health services in Malaysia
Mental health is not to be taken lightly and though it’s still a taboo subject in some Asian communities, it’s reassuring to see more awareness surrounding this topic.
Global companies have taken the step to destigmatise mental health. For example, AIA is now offering insurance benefits for mental health, and Ogilvy Malaysia has recently introduced the Employee Mental Health Program in their company.
So if you are ever struggling and feeling like it’s you against the world, remember that help is all around you, be it in the form of a professional service, books, or a loved one. You just have to open up and reach out first.
For more mental health tips, check these out:
- 9 easy self-improvement tips that won’t trigger anxiety or affect self-esteem
- 7 ways to adapt to life after the CMCO
Cover image adapted from: @befrienderskl and @caracara.space
Follow The Smart Local Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Telegram for more stories like this. If you have a story to share, email us at pressmy@thesmartlocal.com.
FAQs
How can I seek mental help in Singapore? ›
- Consult a doctor or mental health professional.
- Talk to family members and friends.
- Find support in online forums.
- Join a peer support group.
- Call SAMH Counselling Hotline at 1800 283 7019 (toll-free)
NHS 111 online or call 111.
Who do you call when someone's having a mental breakdown? ›If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org . Text MHA to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor from Crisis Text Line. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Where can I get a mental health screening in Singapore? ›You can seek diagnosis at the GPs, Polyclinics and restructured hospitals, or get screened and assessed by Community Mental Health Partners.
What qualifies as a mental illness? ›A mental disorder is characterized by a clinically significant disturbance in an individual's cognition, emotional regulation, or behaviour. It is usually associated with distress or impairment in important areas of functioning.
What are three types of mental illness? ›mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar disorder) anxiety disorders. personality disorders.
What is high functioning anxiety? ›“The term high functioning anxiety describes an individual who, despite feeling anxious, seems able to effectively manage the demands of day-to-day life,” says psychologist Adam Borland, PsyD.
What will I be asked in a mental health assessment? ›During your assessment, you will be asked questions about: Your mental health and your general health. This includes how your mental health problem is making you feel, how you are coping with the symptoms and whether these make it difficult for you to look after yourself properly.
What is a nervous breakdown called today? ›People once used the term “nervous breakdown” to describe a wide range of mental illnesses. The medical community no longer uses the term, but a so-called nervous breakdown remains a sign of an underlying mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What is a nervous breakdown? ›The term "nervous breakdown" is sometimes used by people to describe a stressful situation in which they're temporarily unable to function normally in day-to-day life. It's commonly understood to occur when life's demands become physically and emotionally overwhelming.
What is a mental health screening? ›
A mental health screening is an exam of your emotional health. It helps find out if you have a mental disorder. Mental disorders are common. They affect more than half of all Americans at some point in their lives. There are many types of mental disorders.
What is a chat assessment? ›The CHAT is a screening tool that is carried out with all young people who come into HMYOI Feltham. It consists of 5 parts: • An initial health screening assessment CHAT 1. • An further physical health screen assessment.
Can psychologist give MC? ›Psychiatrists are medical doctors and they can issue medical certificates; psychologists cannot do so. Psychologists are more likely to see people with conditions that can be helped effectively with psychological treatments. This might include behavioural problems, learning difficulties, depression and anxiety.
What are two anxiety disorders? ›- Generalized Anxiety Disorder. ...
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) ...
- Panic Disorder. ...
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ...
- Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)
An inability to cope with problems or daily activities. Feeling of disconnection or withdrawal from normal activities. Unusual or "magical" thinking. Excessive anxiety. Prolonged sadness, depression or apathy.
What are the 5 most common mental disorders? ›- Anxiety Disorders. The most common category of mental health disorders in America impacts approximately 40 million adults 18 and older. ...
- Mood Disorders. ...
- Psychotic Disorders. ...
- Dementia. ...
- Eating disorders.
- Anxiety Disorders.
- Mood Disorders.
- Psychotic Disorders.
- Eating Disorders.
- Personality Disorders.
- Dementia.
- Autism.
Of those, the three most common diagnoses are anxiety disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These three conditions make up around 30 percent of all diagnoses of mental illness in America. While they share many of the same qualities, they're also significantly different from one another.
What medication is best for high-functioning anxiety? ›SSRIs and SNRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft, and common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR. Pros: They are effective for a lot of people and they have a solid safety profile.
What are the 6 main anxiety disorders? ›There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobias, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder and separation anxiety disorder.
What does high anxiety feel like? ›
feeling tense, nervous or unable to relax. having a sense of dread, or fearing the worst. feeling like the world is speeding up or slowing down. feeling like other people can see you're anxious and are looking at you.
What happens in a Counselling assessment? ›A qualified counsellor will ask you questions about your current difficulties, the impact they are having on your life and aspects of your personal history. You will also have the opportunity to identify your goals of therapy, essentially what you would like to achieve from counselling.
How long do mental health assessments take? ›The assessment will be a brief outline and take approximately 30 minutes. You will be asked a range of questions to help you and your practitioner to understand your current problems and ways forward.
How long does it take to get a mental health diagnosis? ›Typically, a psychiatric evaluation lasts for 30 to 90 minutes. At J. Flowers Health Institute, evaluations take approximately 2 hours to ensure a comprehensive and accurate evaluation.
What does a psychotic breakdown look like? ›Loss of interest in activities and other things. Mood swings and outbursts. Emotional numbness. Significant changes in daily patterns, such as sleep, appetite and eating, or self-care.
What does an emotional breakdown look like? ›Anger, irritability, mood swings, or emotional outbursts. Loss of interest in activities. Isolation and a tendency to avoid work and social settings. Changes in the way one views the world, themselves, and others.
How long does a nervous breakdown usually last? ›A nervous breakdown can last from a few hours to a few weeks. If your breakdown has been going on for a while, and you need some relief, the following ten tips are for you. They will help you not only survive this difficult time, but they might even help you grow from this difficult experience.
What's the difference between a mental breakdown and a nervous breakdown? ›A nervous breakdown is also known as a mental breakdown. The term is not an official diagnosis and is not used by the medical community. However, it is sometimes used to describe when mental distress suddenly becomes so overwhelming that a person can't function in their day-to-day life.
What is the difference between a nervous breakdown and a psychotic break? ›Nearly everyone is familiar with the term “nervous breakdown.” It's a term commonly used by people to describe challenging situations in life with which they cannot cope. In contrast, a psychotic breakdown is a mental health emergency that leads an individual to lose touch with reality.
What to do if a family member is having a mental breakdown? ›Seek immediate assistance if you think your friend or family member is in danger of harming themselves. You can call a crisis line or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you think your friend or family member is in need of community mental health services you can find help in your area.
How do you stop a nervous breakdown? ›
Treatment for a nervous breakdown may involve therapy, medication, and self-care or lifestyle changes. Working with a therapist can help someone manage negative emotions, explore the causes of those feelings, and change thoughts and behaviors to minimize stress and better cope with it.
What causes a nervous breakdown? ›A nervous breakdown is ultimately caused by an inability to cope with large amounts of stress, but how that manifests exactly varies by individual. Work stress, mental illness, family responsibilities, and poor coping strategies are all things that can lead to a nervous breakdown and the inability to function normally.
What are the symptoms of a nervous breakdown NHS? ›- continuous low mood or sadness.
- feeling hopeless and helpless.
- having low self-esteem.
- feeling tearful.
- feeling guilt-ridden.
- feeling irritable and intolerant of others.
- having no motivation or interest in things.
- finding it difficult to make decisions.
What is burnout? Burnout can be difficult to describe. However, it's not a medical condition. According to the APA Dictionary of Psychology, burnout is defined as “physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance and negative attitudes towards oneself and others.”
How can you tell if someone is suffering from anxiety? ›- Feeling nervous, restless or tense.
- Having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom.
- Having an increased heart rate.
- Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
- Sweating.
- Trembling.
- Feeling weak or tired.
- Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry.
An emotional meltdown is the result of severe, overwhelming emotional distress. Symptoms can range from uncontrollable crying and weeping, or uncontrollable rage. It can also be more prolonged and lead to depression, severe anxiety, and can cause your moods to swing wildly.
Can blood test show mental illness? ›Mental health disorders including depression, schizophrenia, and anorexia show links to biological markers detected in routine blood tests, according to our new study of genetic, biochemical and psychiatric data from almost a million people.
Is there a test for mental stress? ›There is no standardized test, outside of laboratory research settings, to formally diagnose stress because stress is subjective—what feels very stressful for one person may not cause high levels of stress for another. Only the person experiencing stress can determine how severe it feels.
What is considered moderate depression? ›Depressed mood along with the presence of somatic symptoms was an indicator of moderate depression. People with moderate depression are more likely to experience primary symptoms of low mood, sleep difficulties, weight or appetite changes, and increased/slowed psychomotor activity.
How do I prepare for a chat interview? ›- Q1. I was selected for calling process but I shared my teaching experience there then the HR asked me to get more salary.. ...
- Q2. Shortlist my resume ask to question according to your resume. ...
- Q3. Why did you choose BPO. ...
- Q4. And ask your best experience work. ...
- Q5. They do analysis your mind.
What is a chat interview? ›
An informal interview, also known as a conversational or informal chat interview, is a non-formal job interview, often held in a neutral setting such as a café, usually over food or drink. Informal interviews can also be virtual.
What is the chat process? ›Chat process is a common term used in contact centers for when a brand's support team uses live chat to interact with customers.
Can you get a medical certificate for anxiety? ›However, if you are wondering whether you can get a doctor's certificate online for stress or anxiety, the simple answer is “yes”. Remember that it's important to be familiar with your school or company/employer's policy for terms applicable to medical stress leave. Everyone suffers from stress to varying degrees.
What do I tell my doctor to get stress leave? ›- Be open about your symptoms.
- Be upfront about your feelings. Don't leave out any details.
- Listen to your doctor's advice.
- If needed, book follow-up appointments.
- Explain your situation clearly and what you feel triggers your predicament.
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH SHOULD BE SEEN ON PAR
Agreeing, GPs said that they would give medical certificates (MCs) regardless of whether it is a physical or mental ailment.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org . Text MHA to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor from Crisis Text Line . Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
How much does it cost to see a psychiatrist in Singapore? ›How much are psychiatrists in Singapore? At a public hospital, you may pay as little as $45-60 per session. However, because appointments are required, patients must wait for several weeks before seeing a psychologist. Each session at a private clinic costs between $150 and $400 each time.
How do I report a mentally unstable person in Singapore? ›If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please call the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) 24-hour helpline at 6389 2222, or visit the emergency department of your nearest hospital. I was diagnosed with emotionally-unstable personality disorder (EUPD), depression and anxiety in early 2015.
Where do I go if I have mental health problems? ›...
Your doctor (GP)
- make a diagnosis.
- offer you support and treatments (such as talking therapies and medication)
- refer you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist.
- recommend local support options.
The term mental breakdown is often used when a person has a mental health crisis that overcomes their emotions. It can stem from other conditions like depression and anxiety but tends to be a severe case.
How do I know if I'm in crisis? ›
A person in crisis may: Have unpredictable behavior. Have a hard time communicating their thoughts and feelings. Be acting in a way that could lead them to hurt themselves or others.
Can a psychiatrist diagnose on first visit? ›The first visit is the longest.
You'll fill out paperwork and assessments to help determine a diagnosis. After that, you'll have a conversation with the psychiatrist and an NP or PA may observe.
Therapists are often asked how many sessions someone will need before they feel better. Many of us suggest six sessions as a minimum. It takes time to begin to establish the relationship or 'working alliance' with a client.
Is seeing a psychiatrist worth it? ›Furthermore, because psychiatrists are highly skilled in medication management, they may have more insight into more complex mental health issues than psychologists or therapists. Therefore, seeing your psychiatrist for psychotherapy as well as medication management has great benefits to you the patient.
Is mental illness a disability? ›Is Mental Illness a Disability? A Mental illness can is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA), and if you have a mental illness you may be able to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
Is depression classified as a mental illness? ›Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, it is estimated that 5% of adults suffer from the disorder. It is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities. It can also disturb sleep and appetite.
What is Section 7 Mental Health Act? ›Section 7 Guardianship orders are very rare in practice. Such an order gives the guardian (usually the Local Social Services Authority) the power to: Require the person to reside at a certain place; Require the person to attend a certain place for medical treatment, occupation, education or training; and/or.
What is high functioning anxiety? ›“The term high functioning anxiety describes an individual who, despite feeling anxious, seems able to effectively manage the demands of day-to-day life,” says psychologist Adam Borland, PsyD.
Can you be sectioned for depression? ›You may be sectioned if you or someone has raised concerns about your mental health. You should only be sectioned if: you need to be assessed or treated for your mental health problem. your health would be at risk of getting worse if you did not get treatment.
How do you deal with a mentally unstable person? ›Try to show patience and caring and try not to be judgmental of their thoughts and actions. Listen; don't disregard or challenge the person's feelings. Encourage them to talk with a mental health care provider or with their primary care provider if that would be more comfortable for them.