MMHA

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

Complimentary Copy

FOREWORD

I take great pleasure in writing this foreword to this booklet on "What is Mental Health?"

I understand that it is a reproduction of an earlier booklet that was jointly published by the Singapore Association for Mental Health and the National Council of Social Service and they have kindly consented for its reproduction.

Regardless of the source of the information, it is important that the message on mental health is disseminated to the general public for their benefit. In this respect, I commend the efforts undertaken by MMHA to reproduce the booklet, albeit in a different format. Some information on the activities carried out by MMHA is included in this new booklet.

I hope through the distribution of this booklet, the information will benefit the public at large and they would contact MMHA for any help that they may require when the need arises.

I also understand that MMHA's new direction is to promote mental wellness, with a view to minimizing or eliminating completely the stigma associated with mental illness and I take this opportunity to wish MMHA all the best in their endeavours.

Last, but not least, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Double A for their kind sponsorship which has allowed us to print this booklet and make the information available to more Malaysians.

Toh Puan Datuk Hajjah Dr. Aishah Ong Patron

Contents

OUR VISION 0 3

What is Mental Health? 05

Understanding Mental Illness 0 6

Myths & Facts on Mental Illness 0 8

The Mentally Healthy Family 0 9

Bringing Up Mentally Healthy Children 1 0

Growing Old Gracefully 1 2

Activities Carried Out By the 1 3

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

(MMHA)

Contacts of 1 6

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

(MMHA)

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

OUR VISION

BE A LEADING MALAYSIAN ORGANISATION IN THE FIELD OF MENTAL HEALTH

OUR MISSION

• A dynamic advocate for positive attitudes towards mental health issues

• A professional organisation which plans and executes community mental health programmes

• A recognized centre for referral and rehabilitation

• An active partner with other organisations in the field of mental health

OUR OBJECTIVES

• To promote mental health

• To participate in the prevention, treatment of and research into mental disorders

• To co-operate with the government and other agencies on advocacy and other activities relating to mental health

• To render assistance to emotionally disturbed individuals

• To provide rehabilitation services for the mentally ill

03

Mental health isn't just about mental illness.

Mental health is something we all need. It is a feeling of well-being, happiness, the ability to cope with life's challenges, to accept others and most of all, to have a positive attitude towards oneself.

Mentally healthy people trust others and enjoy being part of a group as well as being on their own. For them, life is meaningful.

However, there is no line that neatly divides the mentally healthy from the unhealthy. There are many degrees of mental health. No single characteristics can be taken as evidence of good mental health and nobody has all the traits of good mental health all the time.

Mental health includes:

• How you feel about yourself

• How you feel about other people

• How you are able to handle the demands of life

One way of describing mental health is to describe mentally healthy people.

Some characteristics of mentally healthy people:

• They feel good about themselves and ... - are able to deal with most situations.

- are able to take pleasure in simple, everyday things.

- are able to handle life's disappointments.

- have self-respect.

- neither under-estimate nor over-estimate their abilities.

• They feel comfortable with other people and ... - are able to give love to others.

- have lasting personal relationships.

- respect the many differences they find in other people.

- are able to feel they are part of a group.

- do not take advantage of others nor allow others to take

advantage of them.

• They are able to meet the demands of life and they ... - set realistic goals for themselves.

- are able to make their own decisions.

- accept their responsibilities.

- plan ahead and look forward to the future.

- welcome new experiences and ideas.

- are satisfied in putting their best effort into what they do.

05

UNDERSTANDING MENTAL ILLNESS

Mental illness is often misunderstood. For centuries, it has been seen as either possession by evil spirits, a moral weakness or punishment from a higher being. Those suffering from mental illness are commonly perceived to be restless, violent and unpredictable.

THIS IS FAR FROM THE TRUTH

There are many forms of mental illnesses that differ in severity, duration and degree. It is a disturbance of the mind which can affect thinking, feeling and behavior that may interfere with normal functioning, and thus make daily life difficult. Most mental illnesses can be treated so that a reasonable state of health can be enjoyed. Like physical illness, mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of.

IT IS NOT ANYONE'S FAULT SYMPTOMS

Mental illness is identified by symptoms. These include anxiety, depression, intense fear, thought disturbances, paranoia, delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations and unusual elation.

CAUSES

It is unclear what causes mental disturbances. It is often preceded by emotional stress and difficulty coping with conflict or adjusting to adverse events. Other factors are biochemical imbalance, deterioration of brain cells (especially in elderly people) and alcohol or drug abuse.

TYPES

1. MINOR MENTAL ILLNESS (NEUROSIS)

Best understood as exaggerated emotional responses that the sufferer is aware of, yet unable to control. Very often related to stress.

2. MAJOR MENTAL ILLNESS (PSYCHOSES)

a) Organic Psychoses - In the organic psychoses, there is a demonstrable physical or structural injury to the brain or central nervous system such as head injury, brain tumor, syphilis and brain hemorrhage due to strokes and alcoholism.

b) Functional Psychoses - In the functional psychoses, doctors do not know yet the exact cause. The cause may be in the patient's early emotional experiences, his physical make-up or his environment. Most likely, it is a combination of all these factors that is responsible.

06

Different types of mental illness are distinguished by their symptoms. Some of the more usual types are:

SCHIZOPHRENIA

A schizophrenic episode occurs at any age, although people in the 16- 33 age group tend to be most at risk. Genetic inheritance, childhood experience, personality type and biochemical abnormality have been cited as possible factors. Some of the symptoms include fear, withdrawal, mood fluctuations, loss of energy and self-neglect.

DEPRESSION

Depressive disorders occur among all ages, races and cultures. Some causes of depression include: family environment, life events, biological factors, serious loss or stress - i.e. a divorce, death of a loved one, retirement. People suffering from depression experience both physical and emotional symptoms, including excessive fatigue, disturbed sleep, appetite and weight loss, difficulty in concentrating, a failing memory and diminishing sexual interest.

MANIC DEPRESSION

A person with manic depression has extreme and unpredictable mood changes. The cause is unknown but studies have shown that it could be inherited. Stress may be another cause, for e.g. finding a new job or death of a relative. These symptoms include: talkativeness, big spending, risk-taking behavior and sleeplessness, alternating with symptoms of depression.

ANXIETY

Anxiety is one of the more common reactions to mental stress. 10% to 15% of people are affected by some form of anxiety disorder. Long-term problems like living in a crowded house can be stressful and even happy events---getting married or switching to new jobs - can cause anxiety. Anxious people feel tense most of the time, having problems with sleeping, are dry in the mouth and are unable to relax.

07

MYTHS & FACTS ON MENTAL ILLNESS

Myth A person who has been mentally ill can never be normal.

Fact There are many people who have experienced a psychiatric illness and are living successful, rewarding lives. Others may have to take medications at times or permanently, but cope well with support.

Myth People with mental illness are unpredictable.

Fact When their illness is in an active phase, they can be impulsive and not their usual self; but once recovered, their behavior becomes more consistent.

Myth Mentally ill people are dangerous and violent.

Fact Most of them are not dangerous or violent. Many lack concentration, motivation and the ability to organize. Rare cases of violent occur only when they are seriously ill. When stable, they are no more violent than the average person.

Myth A hospitalized mentally ill person mixing with others is more likely to get worse than better.

Fact Mental illness is not contagious, nor can it be transmitted through social contact.

Myth Psychiatric treatment is likely to cause brain damage as evidenced by the patient's robotic-like expression.

Fact Robotic-like expression is more a sign of illness than an effect of treatment.

Myth If a person can talk sensibly and has an intact memory, then the person is not mentally ill.

Fact There are numerous types of mental illness and many forms do not affect one's memory or ability to speak appropriately.

08

THE MENTALLY HEALTHY FAMILY

WHAT MAKES A FAMILY?

At a basic level, a traditional family consists of a father, mother and children. An extended family may include grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. In a well-functioning family, each has a vital role and contributes to the well-being of the family as a whole.

In today's modern society, there are other types of families other than the traditional family unit. These include - single parent families, step-parent families and foster families. The common factor in all these families is that they comprise of people with a commitment to share their lives with one another.

WHY VALUE GOOD FAMILY MENTAL HEALTH?

Families and kinship are the single most important aspects of a healthy society. Healthy individuals who contribute towards a healthy society come from healthy families.

WHAT MAKES A FAMILY MENTALLY HEALTHY?

• Family members who respect one another

• Family members who spend quality time together e.g. at meals, watching TV, playing games

• Family members who take time to listen to one another

• Family members who can talk about their problems, hopes and fears

with one another

• The family who can respect the need for individual time and activities

• Family members who are cohesive, fair and tolerant

• Family members who understand one another's social needs and enjoy a positive social life

• The family who has a balanced sense of protectiveness towards its members

09

TIPS FOR IMPROVING YOUR FAMILY'S MENTAL HEALTH

• Accept that NO family is perfect - do not compare your family with an imaginary ideal. When there are problems, start working on ways to solve them

• Be honest - learn to say how you feel without hurting others

• Praise one another for good things instead of blaming for the bad

• Respect each other's right of privacy

• Be sensitive to one another's needs, feelings and rights

• Divide household tasks and chores so that everyone feels satisfied

and appreciated

• Do not abuse one another physically, sexually or verbally

• Have realistic expectations of one another

• Be loyal and faithful to one another

• Do not be afraid to ask for help

BRINGING UP MENTALLY HEALTHY CHILDREN

Children - our source of joy and pain. Still, bringing up children is one of the greatest challenges in life.

Parenting is about loving and caring for your children. It should also be consistent and unconditional. These qualities will give your children a sense of security and belonging.

Love and faithfulness between spouses is equally important. This gives your children the opportunity to see the warmth and tenderness in your marital relationship. This will set an atmosphere which encourages the same kind of affection in the hearts and minds of your children.

Tips to parents to bring up mentally healthy children:

1. DISCIPLINE CONSTRUCTIVELY

Constructive discipline gives children clear direction by setting and adhering to standards of behavior.

2. SPEND TIME TOGETHER

Spending quality time with your children is one of the most precious gifts you can give in raising them for their all round development. Spend time playing, communicating, in family activities, outings and holidays. Quality time spent earns great rewards in love, stability and family togetherness.

3. TEACH RIGHT FROM WRONG

Teaching your children basic values and manners will help them get along better in society. Assign them chores and other responsibilities at home. Talk to them about treating others with kindness, respect and honesty. Above all, set a personal example yourself.

4. DEVELOP MUTUAL RESPECT

Parents should insist that all family members treat each other with respect. This means you should be willing to apologize to your children when you are wrong, show an active interest in their activities and avoid favoritism. In return, you should expect respectful behavior from your children.

5. FOSTER INDEPENDENCE

One of the most difficult aspects of bringing up children is letting go. By gradually allowing them freedom and control over their own lives, you will gain their affection and respect.

6. OFFER GUIDANCE

Children will welcome your guidance when they have problems, provided it is offered and not forced. Offer valuable gifts like your opinions, feelings and experience.

7. LISTENING

Parents should listen to their children from their earliest years.

This means giving individual attention and putting aside one's own thoughts and beliefs in trying to understand the child's point of view.

8. TEND TO PERSONAL AND MARITAL NEEDS

Finally, a vital aspect of bringing up children: personal adjustment. To relate well to children, adults must be comfortable with themselves. By treating yourself well, you will avoid the feeling of being mistreated or over-burdened when times are rough.

There are two lasting gifts we can give our children. One is roots; the other is wings. If you can give your children the foundation of love and the freedom to soar, you will have provided the best upbringing they could ever hope to have.

11

GROWING OLD GRACEFULLY

Growing old is inevitably - bringing with it wisdom through years of experience. But it also means pain in the joints, poor digestion and aching feet.

We have to realize that physical, psychological and mental aspects are involved in aging. Disorders of speech, sight and hearing are more frequent among older adults. Many parts of the body, such as the heart and lungs, do not function as efficiently as before. Our memory becomes poorer, our mobility restricted and we become more prone to depression and irritability.

Acknowledging this is the first step in dealing with growing old. How then do we grow old with dignity?

1. STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

Try daily Tai-Chi or walking. Even housework and gardening are good forms of exercise.

2. KEEP MENTALLY ACTIVE

Keep your mind active by indulging in your hobby or perhaps taking on a new one.

3. PROPER NUTRITION

A well-balanced diet and vitamin supplements are important, especially as you grow older.

4. REGULAR MEDICAL CHECKS

Regular check-ups will allow early detection of problems and assist in treatment and recovery.

5. BE HONEST ABOUT FEELINGS

Feelings of isolation and loneliness are very real in old age. Do not be afraid to share your feelings with family members and friends.

6. ADJUST TO YOUR DIFFERENT ROLE

You may not be able to remain as head of the household, so enjoy sitting back. Let someone else take over the running of the home.

7. PLAN EARLY FOR OLD AGE

Look forward to retirement, but plan well in advance. In realizing the fact that we will all retire at some point in time, plan now psychologically, socially and financially. Let the golden years bring value and rewards.

Activities Carried Out By

MMHA

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

Currently, MMHA carries out the following activities:

1. Rehabilitation Services

2. Family to Family Training Programmes and Public Forums

3. Depression Support Group Services

4. Referral Services

5. Advocacy Work with Relevant Government Agencies and NGOs

MMHA's Rehabilitation Services comprise:

i) THE CHARITY SHOP PROJECT (CS)

This is a relatively new project which was launched on 4 August 2003. The objective of the shop is to provide rehabilitation for people recovering from mental illness. As these people are not ready to rejoin the work force, the charity shop provides an opportunity to reintroduce them to the working environment. It also contributes to improve their self-confidence and aid towards self-empowerment. The shop also serves as a source of employment for those who are unable to re-enter mainstream employment. The clients are trained in making various handicrafts and cookies. They are taught Chinese art painting, singing, computer lessons as well as social skills. They are also required to exercise regularly and do some gardening weekly. Currently, the CS operates Monday through Thursday, from 9.00a.m. to 4.00p.m.

1 3

ii) THE DAY CARE CENTRE (DCC)

The Day Care Centre is for the psychosocial rehabilitation of psychiatric patients who have been treated for the acute phase of their illness in hospitals or clinics, but still require therapeutic activities to develop social skills, regain their confidence and self-esteem, re-establish work routine or learn new occupational skills. It also serves as "drop-in" centre for ex-clients. The DCC also aims to provide a respite facility for carers of clients suffering from chronic mental illness. The DCC clients who express interest and are good in craftwork are encouraged to attend the CS. Currently, the DCC operates on Thursday and Friday, from 9.00am to 4.00pm.

Sometimes, common activities are carried out jointly. Clients are taken out for games, outings, movies and gardening activities from time to time. Clients are also taken to the library and most are registered as members. Regular volunteers assist MMHA to carry out both activities.

Family to Family Training Programmes and Public Forums MMHA through its Family Support Group (FSG) organizes public forums, workshops and seminars from time to time to create better awareness of mental illness and mental health issues of interest to the public, which comprises:

- The production of pamphlets and fact sheets.

- Public talks, articles, interviews with the media to promote mental

health issues, treatment and management of different types of mental disorders.

- Reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

- Advocate for more benefits for the mentally ill and their parents I

guardians.

- Provide opportunities to help, share and learn about each other's problems and experiences in coping with mentally ill relatives.

- A resource centre.

- Buletin Kesihatan Mental

Depression Support Group The Depression Support Group is a:

- Self-help group which caters for people with depression and to relatives and friends of someone with depression.

- Shares their experiences having depression or on caring for their loved ones having depression.

- Learn coping skills and provide information to the interested public about matters relating to depression.

The group meets once a month on a pre-determined date at MMHA where the participants share their problems and experiences and endeavour to find solutions to their problems.

1 4

Referral Services

MMHA maintains a directory of psychiatrists, psychologists and counsellors practicing in Malaysia. Members of the public are welcome to obtain such information during office hours.

MMHA welcomes volunteers to participate in its various activities.

FINANCIAL RESOURCES OF THE

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION (MMHA)

MMHA derives its financial resources from:

- Largely goodwill donations from the public

- A small annual grant of RM20,OOO from the Department of Social Welfare.

- Sending appeal letters to the public.

- Special Fund-raising projects.

AFFILIATIONS

MMHA is affiliated to the following organizations:

- National Alliance for the Mentally III (NAMI USA)

- World Federation for Mental Health

- Mental Health Council of Malaysia

- Malaysian Council for Rehabilitation

- National Council for Welfare and Social Department Malaysia

- Malaysian Aids Council

- Majlis Yayasan Salam Malaysia

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This publication is jointly published by the Singapore Association for Mental Health and National Council of Social Service for free distribution under the Community Mental Health Education Programme, and is reproduced with the kind permission of SAMH and NCSS.

1 5

For further information on

Mental Health and Counselling Services in Malaysia, please contact:

MMHA

MALAYSIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION No.8, Jalan 4/33, off Jalan Othman,

46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan

Tel: 03 77825499 I Fax: 03 77835432

E-mail: mmha@streamyx.com

Website: www.mentalhealth.org.my

1 6

A community service project by:

Double A International Business (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (572382-1) (Formerly known as 99 DA Group Centre Sdn Bhd)

Suite 20-8, 20th Floor, Wisma UOA II, No, 21, Jalan Pinang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Tel: +603-21648899 I Fax: +603-2162 6888 Website: www.DoubleA.com.my

Printed on Double A paper Paper from farmed trees