Discovering Mental Health of Malaysian Youth: A Perspective from Quality of Life Study

Abstract

Throughout these recent issues, mental health has becomes one of the most concerning topic that somehow affects the quality of life, as one of the critical components in youth development. Evidence-based-policy refers to findings from such research to forecast the strategic and systematic related initiatives. As Malaysian Youth Index (MYI) serves as the national tool for measuring youth quality of life and well-being, the level of youth mental health is at level of Very Satisfactory with score 71.59 in 2024 but limited to certain areas of study. Nevertheless, the Malaysian Youth Mental Health Index (MyMHI) in the same year reported the overall score is at the level of Moderately Satisfactory which is 71.91. This is the first dedicated research in Malaysia that focuses on youth mental health and is designed as benchmark for measuring the level of youth mental health and aimed to be monitored on a regular basis. Both studies applied a quantitative method by collecting data in deployed score, basically the same target age youth 15 to 30 years old and reporting through scores of 1 to 100 form less satisfactory to very satisfactory level. However, MYI had varied facets of youth well-being whereas MyMHI narrowed to a mental health study amongst Malaysian youth. The focus of MyMHI are consists of seven domains which are coping mechanism; healthy mind; lifestyle; surrounding environment; personal characteristics; social support and life experience. Each of these domains also has their own indicator that contribute to the final score. Result showed that all six domains are at level of moderately satisfactory while domain of life experience scored at satisfactory level. These interrelated comprehensive studies gathered several pieces of information that need to be taken into account to guarantee the quality of live and well-being of Malaysian youth, together with suggesting approach of intervention programmes to promote sustainable development of youth.