THE Sungai Pinang service centre, after successfully launching its free legal advice programme last year, is now offering free counselling service to the neighbourhood of Jelutong.
The service centre is collaborating with the Penang Family Health Development Association (PFHDA) to provide free counselling service on the second Wednesday of every month starting from this month (7.30pm-9.30pm).
According to the programme director (free counselling service) Engie Ng, the service would cater to the needs of individuals who are facing emotional crisis.
“The Minister of Health (Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad) has earlier stated that there is a great need in creating awareness on mental health issues as well as on the need to have more counseling services.
“It is reported that out of the total Malaysian population, 20 percent are suffering from mild depression and therefore it is essential to help people to deal with their afflictions (mental health) through counselling.
“I think this free counselling service initiated by YB Lim Siew Khim (Sungai Pinang assemblyman) at the service centre is something timely,” Ng said.
Those who are need in of the service must register prior to attending the counselling session. They can do so at the following link https://forms.gle/EP6oikUqEqLL8AL37.
If they need assistance to register for the counselling session, the public can also visit the service centre located at Jalan Ahmad Nor, 11600 Jelutong (04-657 6630).
Meanwhile for those who are suffering from depression and need a listening ear, they can call Befrienders at 03-79568145 (24 hours).
They call also call Penang Befrienders at 04-2815161 / 604-2811108 or whatsapp 011-56997687 (Monday to Sunday from 3pm-midnight).
For those who wish to communicate in Tamil primarily and also in Bahasa Malaysia and English, they can call SNEHAM at 1800 22 5757 daily from 4pm to 8pm.
Sungai Pinang assemblyman Lim Siew Khim feels that people need to be educated more on the issues concerning mental health.
“I feel it is important for an individual who is overwhelmed with emotions to have a good support system.
“We need to be sensitive to people’s emotions and mental state. Not only that, we should also be able to identify those who are suffering from depression and get them help.
“This is something that cannot be overlooked. We can help to save a life if we are observant enough and are sensitive,” added Lim.
Story & Pix by Tanushalini Moroter