IPOH, Sept 28 — The National Mental Health Crisis Line (HEAL 15555) has intervened in 518 behavioural crisis cases over the past four years, covering suicidal ideation and suicide attempts.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that of that figure, 347 cases were of suicidal ideation.
“Some 171 suicide attempt cases were referred through MERS999. With cooperation from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and emergency departments, these individuals were successfully taken to hospital for treatment,” he said.
He said this at a press conference after officiating the national-level launch of World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 at Kolej Poly-Tech MARA here today.
Dzulkefly said the total number of calls received through the line, formerly known as the Psychosocial Support Service Helpline, which was started during the Covid-19 pandemic, stood at 267,873 over the same period.
He said of that total, 220,856 clients (82 per cent) received emotional support assistance, while 47,014 clients (18 per cent) received specific intervention by counselling psychology officers.
He added that the rising number of calls year on year reflects a society starting to open its eyes to the service and to the support system available for those facing mental health issues.
Meanwhile, he said the Ministry of Health (MOH) is working with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to tackle mental health issues among school students that drive suicidal behaviour, including those stemming from stress caused by bullying.
“This includes strengthening counselling services in schools, including screening, referrals and early intervention through the MHPSS (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support) team for individuals, schools or communities affected.
“We are also running the School Health Programme to raise mental health literacy, build healthy coping mechanisms, create an inclusive school environment, and foster inter-agency cooperation, including with PDRM,” he said. — Bernama
