KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 20 -- Nearly one-third of Malaysians who want mental health support are held back by high costs, according to new survey findings.

The report, produced by fintech app Versa in collaboration with stratsea, analysed responses from 1,500 users on their emotional wellbeing and help-seeking behaviour.

It found that 925 respondents were open to professional help such as therapy or counselling.

However, 422 respondents cited the cost of treatment as their biggest barrier, while others struggled to navigate the system or make time for appointments.

According to the report, 337 respondents did not know where to start when seeking help, and 327 said work or family commitments made it hard to access services.

Self-reliance al...