Mental Health Stigma Causes Many to Suffer in Silence – Raja Permaisuri Agong

JOHOR BAHRU: The Raja Permaisuri Agong, Raja Zarith Sofiah decreed that social stigma against mental health causes most people who experience it to suffer alone in silence and feel ashamed to seek help from trained professionals.

Citing a report by the New Straits Times (NST) which highlighted the pressures faced by adults and children, Raja Zarith Sofiah expressed concern over the trend of mental health issues which is increasing in the country.

Her Majesty decreed that most adults are forced to face unstable financial challenges, bear the burden of debt and deal with complex family relationships, which in turn lead to severe psychological stress.

“The study conducted by NST also showed that 16.5 per cent of children aged 5 to 15 years struggle with mental health problems, while one in four teenagers (aged 13 to 17 years) experience depression,” Her Majesty decreed during the 10th Graduation Ceremony of the University of Reading Malaysia, here, today.

Raja Zarith Sofiah, who received an Honorary Doctorate in Psychology from the university, decreed that efforts to address this issue need special attention while stating that the discipline and knowledge of psychology are increasingly relevant today.

Her Majesty emphasised that human behaviour, motivation, resilience and relationships are important for building stronger communities and a more harmonious society.

Raja Zarith Sofiah decreed that society is living in a very strange era when hate speech and the refusal to understand individuals and communities that are different become the main topics of discussion in the world’s media.

“The sad irony is that when information and knowledge are easily accessible through online websites, social media and podcasts, or wherever we are, we become less tolerant, less caring and more inclined to look for differences rather than the similarities that we all share regardless of ethnic background, beliefs and our roles in society,” Her Majesty decreed.

In facing this challenge, Raja Zarith Sofiah emphasised that universities play an increasingly important role in guiding and providing education to future generations.

Therefore, Her Majesty decreed that higher education institutions should not only provide technical knowledge and skills to graduates but also guide them to cultivate character, judgment and moral values.

Citing the words of the late Royal Professor Tan Sri Dr Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas, Her Majesty reminded graduates that the purpose of education is not merely to produce skilled workers or knowledgeable individuals, but also people of noble character.

“The guidance of a teacher, mentor, as well as access to books and knowledge can open up space to achieve what was previously seemingly difficult to attain.

“Such a transformation is not measured solely based on academic results, but is reflected through self-confidence, resilience, curiosity and one’s readiness to contribute back to society,” Raja Zarith Sofiah decreed.

Citing the words of the scholar Imam al-Ghazali that knowledge without practice is worthless, Her Majesty called upon graduates to practise what they have learned for the good of all humankind.

Meanwhile, Her Majesty expressed the highest appreciation to the university for the recognition of the Honorary Doctorate in Psychology and accepted it with full respect for the institution that continues to make important contributions to education, research and the growth of future generations.

Raja Zarith Sofiah also congratulated all graduates for successfully completing their doctoral and degree studies, while reminding them that their achievement is not only determined by qualifications alone, but also by the positive impact they give to those around them.

BERNAMA