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THERE are weeks when everything feels heavier than it should. A low mood that will not lift, a tiredness that sleep does not fix. For most people, it passes. For some, it does not and telling the difference is not always easy.
Experiencing difficult emotions does not necessarily mean someone has a mental illness. But when sadness lingers, grows unusually intense or begins to crowd out everyday life, it may be time to ask for help.
Organisational psychologist Dr Alizi Alias says the road from worry to support is clearer than many people think, and far less daunting. He sets out what to watch for, where to go first and what to expect when you get there.
1. Look out for warning signs, but do not self-diagnose
When someone feels they may be experiencing a mental health problem, Dr Alizi said a useful first step is to learn about recognised warning signs from reputable websites or trusted sources.
However, experiencing these signs does not automatically mean that a person has depression or another mental illness. Instead, they can indicate that further assessment may be appropriate.
“Among the things to consider are whether the negative emotions are unusually intense compared with normal, everyday sadness, whether they have continued for more than two weeks and whether they are interfering with daily life,” he said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
2. Consider whether mental health difficulties are affecting daily responsibilities
Dr Alizi mentioned another important consideration is whether the emotional difficulties are making it harder to function normally.
This could mean struggling to attend school or work, complete responsibilities as an employee or student, or fulfil responsibilities and roles within the family, such as being a husband, wife, father or mother.
“When these difficulties begin to significantly interfere with a person's ability to carry out everyday responsibilities, seeking professional advice may be appropriate,” he advised.
3. Start with a mental health screening at a clinic
If several warning signs are present, the person can visit a clinic and speak to a medical doctor about completing a mental health screening questionnaire.
“A screening tool is not the same as a formal diagnosis. If the results indicate a high level of concern in a particular area, the doctor may issue a referral letter for further assessment.
The referral can be taken to a government or private hospital or to a private psychology centre, where a more comprehensive assessment can be conducted,” Dr Alizi said.
4. A proper assessment may take several hours
A formal diagnosis is generally made by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist following a more detailed assessment.
Dr Alizi explained that the assessment can take several hours because the professional needs to evaluate the person's symptoms and overall circumstances carefully before determining whether a clinical mental health disorder is present.
“Importantly, an assessment does not necessarily result in a diagnosis of depression or another mental illness.
“A person may instead be experiencing mental health difficulties that are significant but have not reached the threshold for a clinical disorder,” he added.
5. Treatment depends on what the assessment finds
If no clinical mental illness is diagnosed, approaches such as counselling, self-care and support from family or friends may still be beneficial.
If a condition such as depression is diagnosed, treatment may include psychiatric medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.
Dr Alizi also highlighted the distinction between psychotherapy and general counselling.
“Psychotherapy is a specific form of treatment for mental health conditions, while counselling can provide support and assistance but does not necessarily treat the mental illness itself.
“Other forms of support, including ‘ibadah’, spiritual activities, friendships, family support and counselling, can also play a useful role.
“While these forms of support may not directly treat a mental illness, they can help a person cope and may complement professional treatment involving therapy or medication,” he said.
6. There is no shame in getting professional help
Dr Alizi emphasised that seeking treatment for a mental health problem should not be viewed as something embarrassing or shameful.
Just as a person with a physical illness may require medical attention, someone experiencing a mental health condition also deserves appropriate professional care.
“Illness is something everyone may encounter at some point in life, whether it is temporary or long-term, physical or mental. Seeking assistance when unwell is therefore a valid and important step.
“For those who view their experiences through a religious perspective, difficulties can also be regarded as a test from Allah and Insha-Allah, it is an opportunity for personal growth and becoming a better person,” he said.
