PETALING JAYA, Sept 18 — The SEHAT Youth Line received 234 calls from young people between January and August this year, with bullying among the main issues raised.
State executive councillor for public health and environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin said youth also sought advice on education, family and relationship issues, adding that the number of calls received highlights the importance of a dedicated channel where teenagers can seek support in a safe, free and confidential environment.
“The main target of this hotline is those aged between 13 and 18, with the service operated by registered counsellors from the Selangor Counselling Centre,” she said when met with reporters at the Selangor Zero-Bullying Campaign and the launch of the SEHAT Support Friends Hub and SEHAT Youth Hotline.
The event was officiated by KASIH Malaysia chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail at M World Hotel here today.
This year, the SEHAT Line was divided into two dedicated channels: the Youth line at 1700-82-7536 and the general line at 1700-82-7537.
Both lines operate from Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 4.30pm, except on public holidays.
Jamaliah said the hotlines are important as teenagers face different challenges from adults and need support suited to their age group.
Besides the SEHAT Youth Line, she said Selangor offers the Support Friends Hub for free, confidential psychosocial support.
“The Support Friends Hub also involves individuals who have experience dealing with mental health challenges or have previously been victims of bullying. Their experiences can help provide early support to individuals in similar situations,” she said.
Jamaliah added that one does not necessarily need to be in a mental health crisis to seek help, as early support can help identify issues and determine the need for further intervention, with possible referrals to mental health professionals.
She encouraged young people facing difficulties or in need of support to make use of the available channels.
“This initiative is important so young people have a space to talk to and seek help from trained personnel without feeling afraid or ashamed,” Jamaliah said.
