Rising social pressures including bullying, substance abuse, risky behaviour, low self-esteem and intense personal expectations are contributing to a sharp increase in stress, anxiety and depression among young people, the Health Ministry has revealed.
In a written parliamentary reply, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the growing mental health burden among youths demands a coordinated, whole-of-government response, alongside active collaboration with non-governmental organisations to ensure sustained and structured support nationwide.
Citing findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, he disclosed that mental health issues among children and adolescents aged five to 15 have more than doubled within four years. The latest data estimates that 922,318 individuals in this age group are now affected, compared with 424,000 recorded in 2019.
The survey also found that mental health challenges among those aged 16 and above have nearly doubled since 2019, with around one million Malaysians estimated to be experiencing depression. The figures signal an urgent need for early intervention, especially as young people navigate increasingly complex social and academic environments.
Dzulkefly was responding to Datuk Adnan Abu Hassan (BN-Kuala Pilah), who sought clarification on the ministry’s plans to enhance youth access to mental health services amid escalating cases of stress and related disorders.
Among the key initiatives introduced is the establishment of the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health to streamline programme coordination. The ministry has also launched the Heal 15555 crisis hotline to provide immediate emotional assistance for those in distress.
In addition, the Health Ministry has intensified collaboration with the Youth and Sports Ministry, Higher Education Ministry and Education Ministry. Efforts include advocacy campaigns in schools and universities, mental health screening programmes, and the development of youth-focused educational materials aimed at fostering awareness and resilience.
Authorities stressed that sustained cross-agency cooperation remains essential to reversing the alarming trend and safeguarding the well-being of Malaysia’s younger generation.
