MENTARI Bintulu

Immediate Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a severe crisis, please do not wait. The quickest way to get help is to go to the Emergency Department at the nearest hospital or local government health clinic (Klinik Kesihatan). You will be referred to the psychiatry team if needed.

What is a Mental Health Crisis?

A mental health crisis is any situation in which a person’s thoughts, feelings, or behaviors could lead to them harming themselves or others, or when they are not able to care for themselves or function effectively in the community.

A cartoon illustration of a boy looking sad in a dark room, with a single beam of light on a small growing plant.

Signs to watch out for:

  • Talking about or planning to harm oneself or others.
  • Extreme mood swings or agitation.
  • Feeling hopeless, trapped, or like there is no reason to live.
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, and usual activities.
  • Paranoia, hallucinations, or delusional thinking.
  • Inability to work or perform daily tasks like eating, sleeping or maintain hygiene.

Crisis Helplines

These confidential services are here to listen without judgment.

Befrienders KL

24 hours, daily

Emotional support for those who are lonely, in distress, or suicidal.

03-76272929

MIASA Crisis Helpline

24 hours, daily

Support for all topics, including abuse, anxiety, and depression.

1-800-18-0066

Talian Kasih

24 hours, daily

Hotline for welfare and social issues, including abuse and domestic violence.

15999

Talian HEAL

8 am - 12 am, daily

Helpline by for various topics including depression, anxiety, and stress.

15555

Buddy Bear Hotline

6 pm - 12 am, daily

A safe space for children and teenagers to share their worries.

1800-18-2327

Tips That Can Help in a Crisis

Simple techniques to help you feel more calm. Click each tip to expand.

This method helps you focus on the present. Take slow, focused breaths and look for:

5 things to SEE: Acknowledge five objects in your sight.
4 things to FEEL: Notice four textures you can touch.
3 things to HEAR: Listen for three distinct sounds.
2 things to SMELL: Identify two different scents.
1 thing to TASTE: Focus on one taste in your mouth.

This method can calm your nervous system. Follow these steps:

Breathe in slowly for 4 seconds.
Hold your breath gently for 4 seconds.
Breathe out slowly for 4 seconds.
Pause for 4 seconds before repeating.

A sudden, safe temperature change can interrupt intense emotions. Try one of these:

Hold a piece of ice in your hand.
Splash cool water on your face.
Step outside for a moment into cool air.

You do not have to go through this alone. Talking about what you are experiencing can provide immediate relief and perspective. Reach out to:

A trusted friend or family member.
One of the helplines listed on this page.

How to Help a Loved One

Your support can make a huge difference. Here's how to help.

Two people sitting together, one offering comfort and support to the other.
  • Listen with empathy. You don't need to solve their problems. Just being present is powerful.
  • Ask directly but gently. It's okay to ask, "Are you thinking about suicide?" This won't put the idea in their head but opens a door for them to talk.
  • Encourage professional support. Offer to help them call a helpline.
  • Ensure their immediate safety. If you believe they are at risk, stay with them and call for emergency help.