5 June 2024: In today’s digitised, fast-paced world, mental health has emerged as a critical concern affecting millions worldwide. According to a 2001 study by the World Health Organisation, one in four people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Yet despite growing awareness, stigma and misconceptions continue to hinder help-seeking behaviour to access essential mental health services.
The recent 38th ILMU Hasanah featured a sharing session by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Hankir, a frontline psychiatrist with the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. Although he holds teaching positions at Cambridge University and King’s College London, and who has received numerous accolades for his work – including the Royal College of Psychiatrists Foundation Doctor of the Year and the Caroline Flack Mental Health Hero Award, Dr. Hankir is not a stranger to personal experiences of stigma.
Stigma is defined as a social phenomenon where individuals or groups are devalued, discriminated against, or ostracised due to characteristics or conditions deemed undesirable or shameful by society. Consequently, the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health often leads to feelings of shame and isolation, remaining a significant barrier to early interventions and better outcomes for those in need.
Journey to Breakthrough: A Holistic Approach to Mental Healthcare
Dr. Hankir’s journey to breakthrough began at the age of 17, when he fled the civil war from Lebanon to the United Kingdom. Despite facing significant challenges, including financial hardship and mental health struggles, he persevered to achieve his dream of becoming a doctor of psychiatry. Because of his own experiences of stigma, Dr. Hankir now employs a unique approach in treating his patients, through the innovative use of storytelling and the performing arts – humanising individuals with mental health conditions, and encouraging society to view mental health through a lens of empathy and acceptance.
His work underscores the need for a holistic approach to mental health, one that integrates aspects such as faith-based support, professional treatment, and community engagement. Dr. Hankir reminded the audience that by improving social connectivity through performing arts, pursuing hobbies, and connecting with loved ones, we can begin to dismantle the isolation that often accompanies mental health struggles. It is important to recognise that many in our midst face mental health conditions that encompass a wide range of psychological and emotional disturbances affecting their daily life, relationships, and the ability to cope with everyday challenges. This could lead to a downward spiral, from feeling overwhelmingly isolated to depression, and subsequently being unable to recognise that there is a problem, let alone seek professional help.
Throughout the session, various aspects of daily life that could complement professional treatment were explored, including the impact of diet on brain health. Lifestyle interventions such as improving dietary habits, enhancing physical fitness, and establishing a sanctuary for self-care are also crucial for enhancing psychological well-being. These have been shown to not only support optimal brain function, but also foster overall mental and emotional health, enabling better stress management and emotional balance.
Paving the Road to Recovery
By normalising conversations about mental health and advocating for better quality resources, a more compassionate and inclusive society is formed Civil society organisations (CSOs) play a critical role in this endeavour, working directly with communities to provide support and resources.
By incorporating mental health awareness and initiatives into programmes, CSOs can help break down barriers and ensure that individuals are equipped to address mental health challenges effectively. Also, by continuing to explore innovative approaches, coupled with research that advances our understanding of the local nuances in tackling mental health issues, we ensure that mental health support is a priority for all.
The following are just a few suggestions raised during the ILMU Hasanah session, for organisations to contribute to improving access to mental healthcare services in Malaysia:
· Education and Awareness Campaigns: Organise workshops, seminars, and campaigns to educate the public about mental health issues, reducing stigma and increasing understanding.
· Advocacy for Policy Change: Advocate for policies that prioritise mental health funding, improve access to services, and integrate mental health into overall healthcare systems.
· Promote Research and Innovation: Support and engage in research initiatives that advance knowledge of mental health, treatments, and effective interventions.
· Community Engagement: Participate in and support community-based mental health programs and initiatives that provide resources and support to those in need.
Bringing Hope and Resilience to those in Need
“The power of listening cannot be overstated,” said Dr. Hankir, and there were nods of agreement spotted in the audience. Each of us has the ability to offer non-judgmental support and create safe spaces where individuals feel valued and understood.
Sharing his insights on how we can support the youth in their mental health journey, “Listen to the younger people. Provide them with the platform to express themselves. Every younger person wants to speak – just give them that opportunity. Sometimes one keeps these walls not to keep people out, but because we want to discover who has the will to climb over them; who has the will to break those walls down.”
Celebrating diverse perspectives and experiences enriches our collective effort to dismantle barriers. By understanding the holistic needs of mental healthcare and rejecting stigma, we can foster a society that values empathy, understanding, and support. Through these efforts, we collectively ensure that mental health services become accessible to everyone, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate world.
The session was moderated by Nadiah Hanim Abdul Latif, Sustainability & Social Impact Advocate, and President of Malaysian Rare Disorders Society.
Missed the session? Watch the full recording on YouTube.
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Prof. Dr. Ahmed Hankir is a World Health Organisation Award-winning psychiatrist, Honorary Visiting Professor at the University of Cardiff, UK, Consultant Psychiatrist in Canada & UK, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Mental Health Research in association with Cambridge University, and author of “Breakthrough: Stories of Hope, Resilience, and Mental Health Recovery” (2024).
