Individuals experiencing serious work pressure and early symptoms of depression should talk about their problems with their family members or confide in friends, says Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah.

He said friends and family members should listen to those facing problems of mental pressure and depression and help them seek treatment.

Speaking at a Mental Health Specialist Discussion: Neuropsychiatric and Islamic Perspective, Dr Noor Hisham said work pressure if not properly handled could give negative impact to mental health and lower productivity.

"In a work environment, officers holding high positions in government or private agencies are exposed to such work pressure.

"Therefore these officers should be more open to discuss the problems they are facing with people they could confide in or talk to professionals," he said at the function organised by Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM).

The text of his speech was read by Health Ministry Disease Control Division Senior Principal Assistant Director Dr Nurashikin Ibrahim at the event held in conjunction with the World Mental Health Day on Oct 10.

-- BERNAMA