COMMENT | You’ve read it countless times, mental health problems are on the rise.

In Malaysia, we are fortunate that those facing mental health, psychological or psychiatric issues, can get affordable treatment in public healthcare - albeit the wait list is long.

However, going through the public healthcare system for mental help is a journey fraught with ups and downs - where gaslighting and lack of empathy or understanding often mar the good work of compassionate professionals.

This is what Nor* (not their real name) and I experienced when we turned to government facilities for help...