HEAL 15555 hotline receives 336 calls related to suicide

KUALA LUMPUR: Out of a total of 59,860 calls received through the Mental Health Crisis Helpline, or HEAL 15555, from 2022 to yesterday, 336 calls were related to suicidal behavior, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad.

According to the Wilayahku portal, he stated that of this number, 198 calls involved suicidal thoughts, while 138 calls were about suicide attempts.

“We found that of the 198 cases of suicidal ideation, they are indeed contemplating suicide.

“This requires immediate intervention and identification of the issues so we can prevent them from doing so,” he said.

He made the remarks at a press conference after officiating the National World Mental Health Day 2024 celebration here today.

The HEAL 15555 hotline, the first crisis assistance hotline fully operated by counseling psychologists, started operating on October 21, 2022, to help individuals facing mental health issues receive early assistance.

The hotline operates from 8 AM to midnight every day, including public holidays, and is one of the initiatives implemented to prevent suicidal behavior in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Dzulkefly mentioned that of the total calls received, 35,590 (59 percent) clients received emotional support and assistance, while 24,270 (41 percent) clients were given specific interventions.

“Therefore, it is crucial for top management in organizations and workplaces, whether directors or other managers, to create an atmosphere of empathy and a fair working environment.

“While leadership aims for everything to work excellently and effectively, we must also recognize that the best outcomes occur when we receive support and cooperation from our team members, especially when they are motivated to realize what is referred to as the organization’s vision and aspirations,” he said.