The recent student stabbing incident at a school has left many Malaysians shocked and saddened, prompting renewed calls for better awareness of children’s mental and emotional well-being.
Community Safety Alliance chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the tragedy should encourage authorities, schools and parents to have more open discussions on how to identify emotional distress in children before it escalates into a crisis.
Emotional struggles often show warning signs
Lee said emotional distress does not always appear in obvious ways.
Some children may become withdrawn, while others may turn irritable, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, see their academic performance decline or distance themselves from friends.
He stressed that these behavioural changes should not simply be dismissed as typical teenage mood swings, as they could be signs that a child needs help. At the same time, Lee urged the public not to equate mental illness with violence.
“Most people with mental health conditions are not violent and are more likely to become victims rather than perpetrators,” he said.
Teachers and parents play a crucial role
Lee said teachers are often among the first adults to notice changes in a student’s behaviour because they observe how students interact with others and cope with daily school life.
While teachers are not expected to diagnose mental health conditions or provide counselling, he said they are in a unique position to recognise when a student may be struggling and refer them for appropriate support. He added that even taking the time to listen without judgement could encourage a child to seek further help.
Lee also called for mental health literacy to become an essential part of every school community, with teachers equipped to identify early warning signs and schools ensuring counselling services are accessible and free from stigma.
Prevention starts before a tragedy happens
Lee said parents also play an equally important role by creating a safe environment where children feel comfortable expressing negative emotions without fear of criticism or being ignored. He stressed that the strongest support comes from families, schools and mental health professionals working together so that no child has to face emotional struggles alone.
“Prevention cannot begin only after a tragedy happens,” he said.
According to Lee, early recognition, timely support and intervention can make a significant difference in a young person’s life.
Those who need free and confidential emotional support can contact the Befrienders Kuala Lumpur 24-hour helpline at 03-7627 2929 or the Health Ministry’s Talian HEAL 15555, available daily from 8am to midnight.
Follow Wah Piang for more.
