Phototherapy as an Alternative Treatment in Mental Health for Malaysian Post-Pandemic Covid-19 Victims

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted mental health around the world and increased the need for other therapeutic interventions. This article evaluates the phototherapy approach as an alternative therapy in mental health for victims of post-pandemic COVID-19 in Malaysia. Qualitative methods were used in data collection through case studies, expert interviews, personal interviews, participant stories, and direct observation of the phototherapy process among the seven research participants. The study showed that participants feel unfamiliar and are not conscious of phototherapy. Therefore, there is a need for education and insight into this technique. Divergent views were expressed by the participants, some of whom were open to combining phototherapy with more conventional forms of treatment like medication and counseling. However, consideration of cultural sensitivities, engagement with the existing mental health support systems, and targeted public awareness are important for wider acceptance and use. Recommendations include government policies and funding for research and education programs, community activities initiated by NGOs, and advocacy through in-person efforts such as workshops and social media. Future studies would examine how effective phototherapy is when used in different demographic groups, compared to other treatment interventions, and when integrated with digital technologies. This study contributes to the discourse on alternative mental health treatments and provides actionable insights to expand the use of phototherapy within Malaysia's mental health framework.