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Mental health has rapidly become a pressing concern across the globe, and Brunei Darussalam is no exception. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that nearly one billion people worldwide, including children and youth, are battling mental health disorders. In Brunei, the demand for mental health services has surged dramatically, with 13,246 individuals seeking psychiatric, psychological, and community support between 2023 and 2024 – marking a 17 per cent increase from previous years. This sharp rise in cases of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions reflects the mounting pressures faced by society today. Recent figures from the Ministry of Health (MoH) show that 11,000 people are receiving mental health care, with new cases emerging at an alarming rate – 118 adults and 127 children diagnosed annually. The workplace, in particular, has become a significant battleground for mental well-being, with increasing job stress, burnout, and bullying contributing to the growing crisis. This, combined with societal challenges, has led to a worrying uptick in anxiety and depression, further underscored by a rise in suicide cases. The urgency for comprehensive mental health support systems has never been clearer. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/ODQOUOkc3byNURXk5ba2k-rCCKpepu--h8_xVf8jPsY.jpeg) PHOTO: FREEPIK ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/o2DJtrt4L-AWA_mkVIPDB-p3w6x6qyJlOtxFI1fNvYe.jpeg) PHOTO: FREEPIK **A SPOTLIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH** Recognising the gravity of the situation, the Sultanate has taken steps to tackle this escalating issue. The recent Knowledge Convention 2024 shone a spotlight on mental health, focusing on the importance of awareness, prevention, and treatment. This significant event provided a platform for discussing strategies to support mental well-being across various sectors, emphasising the need for community engagement and stronger support networks. By fostering greater public understanding and improving mental health resources, the nation aims to pave the way for more effective solutions to this growing problem. It’s crucial to acknowledge that mental health is a cornerstone of one’s overall well-being, extending far beyond physical health. Just as a healthy body influences how we live, a healthy mind shapes how we think, manage emotions, and respond to life’s challenges. Those with strong mental health are better equipped to handle stress, appreciate life’s nuances, and navigate daily responsibilities with balance and positivity. In contrast, when mental health falters, individuals often find themselves struggling with prolonged anxiety, depression, and emotional strain, making it difficult to manage life’s hurdles. Mental illness encompasses a wide spectrum of disorders, each marked by disturbances in thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. These conditions often arise from life’s adversities, where individuals may find themselves overwhelmed and unable to cope. Without proper intervention and treatment, these challenges can spiral, significantly impacting one’s quality of life. It is through comprehensive support, early intervention, and open conversations about mental health that society can address this growing crisis and promote healthier, more resilient communities. At the Knowledge Convention Forum 2024, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Isham bin Haji Jaafar, passionately underscored the crucial role of public involvement in mental health initiatives. The minister stressed that collaboration between government and non-government agencies is key to promoting mental health awareness through targeted campaigns. These efforts have already made significant strides in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Brunei, helping to shift public perceptions. By encouraging active participation, the nation is slowly dismantling the barriers that once silenced open discussions on mental well-being. Good mental health doesn’t just happen by chance; it requires understanding the root causes of symptoms, seeking early intervention, and accessing the right treatments. Brunei has made it a priority to provide platforms for public education and support, creating a culture where people feel empowered to address mental health concerns before they worsen. With a strong focus on prevention, the country highlights the importance of community involvement, ensuring that individuals are not only aware of the resources available to them but also feel supported in their journey towards better mental health. Through these efforts, the Sultanate is paving the way for a future where mental well-being is prioritised and protected. **BREAKING THE SILENCE** During a recent talk at the Special Women’s Assembly, held in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration, Clinical Psychologist and Head of Mental Health Strategy at the Health Promotion Centre, MoH, Nor Syahmun binti Haji Matassan, shed light on the evolving landscape of mental health in Brunei. While she acknowledged the worrying rise in the number of individuals seeking treatment for mental health issues, she also highlighted a promising shift – more people are now open to seeking help, treatment, and support. This positive change reflects a growing awareness and acceptance of mental health within the community, a step forward in breaking the silence surrounding mental well-being. Nor Syahmun also drew attention to the deep connection between mental health and the objectives of Maqasid Syariah, emphasising that mental well-being is essential for emotional regulation, balanced behaviour, and a peaceful mind-set. A healthy mind equips individuals with the resilience needed to face life’s challenges with a sense of calm, happiness, and tranquillity. She explained that mental health operates on a spectrum, where one’s mental state fluctuates based on biological, psychological, and social factors. Much like physical health, mental health is dynamic, with its own highs and lows. Neglecting mental health challenges can lead to their escalation into more severe disorders. Nor Syahmun stressed the importance of vigilance in maintaining mental well-being – not just for oneself, but for family and the wider community. By actively working together to nurture mental health, individuals can improve their ability to manage stress and lead more fulfilling lives. Mental well-being is also crucial to fulfilling religious obligations. Poor mental health can hinder a person’s ability to engage fully in worship and spiritual practices, while good mental health fosters deeper focus and devotion. This makes nurturing mental health a vital component of both daily life and spiritual practice in Brunei, highlighting its importance not only for personal well-being but also for religious fulfilment. – Rokiah Mahmud

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