Reducing Stigma Towards People With Mental Illness In Malaysia
- Author:
Lim Sheri
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
mental illness;
Malaysia;
stigma
- From:ASEAN Journal of Psychiatry
2015;16(2):1-4
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objective: Mental illness accounts for 12% of the global burden of disease with a
reported 1 in 5 Malaysians suffering from a psychological disorder. Sufferers
have been long plagued by stigma, which results in social isolation, low-selfesteem,
lower opportunities for employment, housing, and ability to achieve life
goals. This essay aims to suggest strategies to overcome such stigma in the local
setting. Methods: Literature search was conducted through PubMed
(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) and Google Scholar
(http://scholar.google.com.my). Data obtained was compiled as an opinion piece.
Results: The factors contributing to stigma in Malaysia include a lack of public
knowledge, language and cultural influences, inaccurate media portrayal,
doctors’ attitudes towards the field of psychiatry, and psychiatrists themselves.
Stigma can be tackled in four areas: society, media, medical education, and the
field of psychiatry. Firstly, psychiatric terminology can be adapted to local
languages and cultural beliefs in order to avoid misconceptions. Secondly, public
education is more effective if focused to targeted key groups. The media is
crucial in influencing the public mind-set, and needs to be creatively engaged.
Thirdly, more positive medical practitioner attitudes to mental illness can be
moulded through early psychiatric postings during medical school. Finally,
psychiatrists play a role in correcting misconceptions, avoiding misdiagnosis and
ineffective treatments. Cultural competency leads to better management of
patients by awareness towards socio-cultural and religious influences.
Conclusion: A multifaceted, united coalition of effort is needed in order to tackle
stigma in different contexts, and will require concerted leadership from different
parties.
- Full text:P020150727432410695190.pdf
