World Mental Health Day: It’s Okay To Be “Not Okay”

Address The Exhaustion.

Imagine this: You are stuck in traffic after a long day. You are exhausted. Overwhelmed. And someone  cuts you off. You snap. Does this sound familiar? That is not a “bad mood.” It could be a sign that your mental health needs some much needed care. Putra Medical Centre is here to tell you that it’s alright.

Stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression—these telling symptoms are more common than we realise.

SYMPTOMS CAN BE DISTRESS SIGNALS

World Mental Health Day, marked every 10 October, is a necessary reminder that your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Stress, anxiety, burnout, depression—these symptoms  are more common than we think. Yet, these struggles often go unnoticed or, worse, they get ignored.

Mental Health Issues Aren’t A Weakness

And no, mental health issues aren’t a sign of weakness. Often, they are a sign that you’ve been strong  for too long. Public figures like Yuna, Harith Iskander, and Daiyan Trisha have spoken about their own  mental health journeys. Globally, Prince Harry, Lady Gaga, and even Olympic athletes like Simone Biles have shared about similar personal struggles. Their message is clear: You are not alone.

Malaysia: Major Causes and Risk Factors

Let’s be real. Life in Malaysia can feel overwhelming. We juggle demanding work hours, packed family  schedules, traffic jams, and the endless buzz of notifications. Add to these challenges the ‘extra’ load  of the following stresses, and it’s no wonder our minds feel heavy and incredibly drained: 

• • Cultural stigma: Many still hesitate to talk about mental health
  • Work stress: High-pressure environments with little time to rest
  • Urban isolation: Living in busy cities but feeling emotionally alone
  • Financial worries: The rising cost of living doesn’t help our peace of mind
  • Social media pressure: The endless highlight reels online can make us feel like we’re falling behind

The Numbers Behind The Loud Silence

According to Malaysia’s 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey, one in three adults struggles with mental health. These are not just statistics. These are friends, family, and self. Here is the reality:

• • Young adults (16 – 29) report the highest stress levels
  • Working Malaysians are showing increasing signs of burnout
  • Post-pandemic anxiety and depression have surged, mainly among mothers, caregivers, and teens

PMC: Patient Support and Diagnoses

Mental health issues can be invisible, but are real. At PMC, we listen and care. Our Internal  Medicine specialists like Dr. Anuar Waid and Dr. Chew Chang Eek are both often the first point of contact for patients feeling “not quite right.” Our doctors take a person’s mental health and wellbeing seriously.

“Mental health is not just about avoiding illness. It is about creating space for peace, clarity, and  emotional balance. Never feel ashamed to ask for help,” explains PMC physician, Dr. Chew Chang Eek. PMC offers mental health screenings, consultations, and referrals to specialists for problems like:

• • • Anxiety and panic attacks – Persistent worry, nervousness, or sudden episodes of intense fear.

    • Depression – A prolonged feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in life.

    • Sleep Disorders – Trouble falling or staying asleep, frequent waking, or poor sleep quality.
    • Postnatal Depression – Emotional struggles after childbirth, including sadness, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed.

    • Burnout and stress-related issues – Mental and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress from work, caregiving, or life pressure.

Professional Treatment Options

PMC’s mental health care is holistic, private, and compassionate. Depending on your needs, we offer:

• • • Therapeutic support – We can connect you with mental health professionals and counsellors.
    • Support for working adults and students – We understand the demands you face and offer flexible and discreet care.
    • Medical management – If symptoms are affecting your daily life, we can prescribe medication and monitor your progress.
    • Lifestyle guidance – Our team helps with key strategies like sleep hygiene, diet changes, and stress-reduction techniques.

It’s More Than Just A “Phase”

Mental health issues affect more than your mood. They touch every part of your life—sleep,  energy, focus, relationships, and physical health. Some feel constant fatigue. Others struggle with guilt  or worthlessness. Many lose interest in the things they once loved. We approach mental health with empathy. Our specialists are here to remind you that you are not broken, just human. PMC supports:

• • Postnatal mums facing baby blues
  • Men who’ve been taught to stay silent
  • Elderly patients coping with loneliness
  • Students overwhelmed with academic stress

Sometimes, talking to someone who listens can change everything. PMC Alor Setar is here—to listen.

LET’S START THE CONVERSATION

This World Mental Health Day, make a promise to yourself. Check in with your mind. If you or a loved  one is struggling, reach out. We’re ready to listen, support, and guide you back to good mental health. Sometimes, talking to someone who listens could change everything. PMC is here—to listen. 

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