Johor mental health cases on the rise

ISKANDAR PUTERI - Mental health and emotional disorder cases in the state have increased in the past three years after the Covid-19 pandemic.

State Health and Unity Exco Ling Tian Soon said the records were worrying and the Johor state health department (JKNJ) is working towards monitoring the issue.

"JKNJ recorded 28 per cent of mental health cases as well as emotional disorders last year compared to 21 per cent in 2021.

"2020 had the highest spike in mental health and emotional disorder cases at 28 per cent from 11 to 12 per cent in 2019," he said.

He said this during question time at the Johor State Assembly on Monday.

Selamat Takim (BN-Sungai Balang) had requested for the date of mental health cases recorded in the state.

Ling who is the Yong Peng Assemblyman said based on case screenings mental health cases have showed a significant increase.

He said 57,855 patients were screened last year compared to 15,951 in 2021 and 37,128 in 2020 at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"These mental health and emotional disorder issues must be solved holistically. Among the emotional disorders identified is due to loss of work and financial issues.

"JKNJ is preparing services to aid patients in adapting to the new situation and how to face their emotional turmoil," he said.