By: Mr. Mohamad Ashaari bin Awab

SERDANG, 16 August - The Counseling Division of Universiti Putra Malaysia (BKUPM), through the Self-Development Section, continued its efforts to strengthen mental health literacy among the university community and the wider public through Podcast Borak Kaunselor Series 5: Endure or Burnout, held on 8 June 2026, from 8.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. Organised in collaboration with Kolej Tun Dr. Ismail (KTDI), the programme was conducted online via Zoom Meeting and streamed through BKUPM Facebook Live, attracting a total of 2,712 participants comprising students, staff, and members of the community.

The podcast focused on burnout, particularly the importance of recognising its early signs from emotional, physical, and mental perspectives. The discussion helped participants understand that prolonged stress should not be overlooked, especially when it begins to affect personal well-being, daily functioning, and an individual's ability to manage responsibilities effectively.

The session also highlighted the distinction between healthy resilience and the tendency to suppress emotions to the point of causing harm to oneself. Participants were encouraged to recognise their personal limits and understand that resilience does not mean having to endure every challenge alone without expressing emotions or seeking support.

In addition, the programme encouraged participants to express their feelings through safe and appropriate means, whether by speaking to trusted individuals or seeking professional assistance when experiencing prolonged stress. This approach is important in encouraging individuals to take early action before the situation becomes more serious.

Participants were also introduced to several basic stress management strategies that can be practised in their daily lives. These included time management, self-care, relaxation techniques, and building a strong support system. Such strategies can help individuals manage stress more positively while taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of burnout.

The participation of 2,712 individuals from diverse backgrounds demonstrates the broad relevance of mental well-being and burnout issues in today's society. Conducting the programme online through Zoom Meeting and Facebook Live also enabled mental health information to reach a wider audience without geographical limitations, making psychological education more accessible to the university community and the public.

Overall, Podcast Borak Kaunselor Series 5: Endure or Burnout successfully contributed to enhancing participants' awareness and mental health literacy. The programme not only helped participants recognise the early signs of burnout but also encouraged a more open approach towards emotional management, seeking support, and maintaining their own psychological well-being as well as that of those around them.

BKUPM hopes that initiatives such as this will continue to serve as accessible and relevant platforms for psychological education. Continuous efforts of this nature are essential in developing a more aware and resilient university community and public that is better equipped to manage stress in healthy ways while maintaining a balanced and meaningful life.

Date of Input: 16/08/2026 | Updated: 16/08/2026 | ayna