This report examines the economic impact of maternal depression during the perinatal period (pregnancy
and the first year after childbirth) in Malaysia. Perinatal depression affects 1 in 8 expectant and new mothers in the country, leading to significant physical, social, and psychological consequences for both mothers and their children. Addressing maternal mental health is an urgent public concern.
In this research paper, we are sharing the results gathered from a study conducted based on the results of PHQ-9 and GAD-7 tools used as depression and anxiety screeners respectively. This data was compiled between 1 January 2020 and 31 January 2022.
This paper includes qualitative data gathered from a COVID stories survey we conducted between June-July 2021 that shares real-life stories of individuals who experienced feelings of depression and/or anxiety during the pandemic.
The media in Malaysia play an important role in reflecting the realities and challenges of society, and a free press is fundamental within a functioning, healthy democracy. Media outlets and publications wield significant influence over the public and therefore have a responsibility toward fair reporting on sensitive topics such as suicide, free from sensationalism or glamourising stories. Clear media guidelines on ethical reporting of suicide are needed not only to ensure fair reporting, but also to educate and inform the public on suicide prevention and how to get help when needed. In reversing the trend of suicide rates, the media has a crucial role to play through ensuring people are empowered rather than harmed by the news they consume.
The media in Malaysia play an important role in reflecting the realities and challenges of society, and a free press is fundamental within a functioning, healthy democracy. Media outlets and publications wield significant influence over the public and therefore have a responsibility toward fair reporting on sensitive topics such as suicide, free from sensationalism or glamourising stories. Clear media guidelines on ethical reporting of suicide are needed not only to ensure fair reporting, but also to educate and inform the public on suicide prevention and how to get help when needed. In reversing the trend of suicide rates, the media has a crucial role to play through ensuring people are empowered rather than harmed by the news they consume.
This paper examines the status of youth suicides in Malaysia and provides policy recommendations for prevention.
The government has found a rising trend in suicide among youths in Malaysia. It is estimated that in 2019, 512 youths ended their lives by suicide (74.3% of whom were young males). Besides the immeasurable emotional toll due to suicides on families, suicides have an economic impact on communities, societies and the nation, with loss of manpower and income for families, employers and the government. This paper estimates the economic cost of youth suicide in 2019 based on the economic loss due to foregone income and the loss of potential government revenue due to foregone personal taxes. In 2019, youth suicide is estimated to cost the Malaysian economy a high price of RM346.2 million or RM676,165 per suicide. The investment in Malaysia’s economy must include an investment in the mental health of young people, including the development of effective suicide prevention strategies.
