The COVID-19 crisis has taken a toll on Malaysians’ mental well-being, especially for the people of Sabah due to a recent spike of COVID-19 cases in the state.
Photo via MERCY Malaysia
MERCY Malaysia has started a free psychosocial support hotline for Sabahans which will provide a listening ear for anyone who may be struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, or other negative emotions as a result of the pandemic.
Speaking to the Malay Mail, its health coordinator, Masniza Mustafa said that the rising number of COVID-19 cases and the ongoing conditional movement control order (CMCO) in Sabah can have a detrimental effect on mental health.
A psychosocial support hotline can be a lifesaver as the state continues to battle the crisis.
“The fear and anxiety of being infected and affected by this pandemic could be overwhelming and cause a strong emotion in adults and children, and it could lead to significant psychosocial consequences in the future,” she added.
Hai, apa khabar orang Sabah? Peningkatan kes COVID19 di Sabah membuatkan kamu rasa takut, risau, sedih, marah, cemas,...
Posted by MERCY Malaysia on Sunday, October 18, 2020
Clinical psychologists and counsellors who can provide Psychological First Aid will be manning the hotline where they will provide “initial disaster response intervention with the goal to promote safety, stabilise survivors of disasters and connect individuals to help and resources.”
For now, four psychological volunteers from MERCY Malaysia and two psychologist officers from the Ministry of Health will be tasked to take the calls, and the service is available predominantly in Bahasa Malaysia, but will also be able to accommodate other languages and dialects upon requests.
If you’re feeling scared or alone, just know that the feeling is normal and that it is okay to ask for help!
Stay safe, stay healthy, Malaysians!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
