In recent years, there has been a significant increase in awareness and initiatives surrounding mental health support and assistance in the Philippines. This growing recognition of the importance of mental and emotional well-being among Filipinos has paved the way for a more open and compassionate approach towards addressing health issues of mental wellness in the country. It is crucial to acknowledge and prioritize mental and emotional well-being as it affects every aspect of our lives, from our personal well-being to our relationships and overall quality of life.
Addressing mental wellness issues and seeking help is of utmost importance. Mental problems can manifest in various ways, such as anxiety, depression, stress, and other psychological disorders. Without proper guidance and assistance, these issues can have a profound impact on an individual’s daily functioning and overall happiness. It is essential to recognize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing and self-improvement.
Understanding the perception of mental and emotional well-being in the Philippines is crucial in order to effectively promote mental well-being monitoring and support. Let’s take a closer look at the perception on mental well-being in the country and explore some factors at play to shed light on the current situation.
Stigma and Misconceptions
Stigma surrounding a person’s mental wellness refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes associated with these conditions. In the Philippines, there is a significant stigma attached to mental well-being, which often leads to discrimination and social exclusion. Many people still view these issues as a sign of weakness or a lack of faith, rather than recognizing them as legitimate medical conditions. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and can contribute to the worsening of their mental stability.
Another factor that contributes to the perception of mental well-being in the Philippines is the lack of awareness and education. Many people have limited knowledge about such conditions affecting the mind, their causes, and available treatments. This lack of understanding can perpetuate misconceptions and hinder individuals from seeking appropriate aid. It is crucial to promote health education and awareness campaigns to address these gaps in knowledge on mental wellness.
Statistics on Mental Health in the Philippines
To gain a better understanding of the mental well-being situation in the Philippines, let’s take a look at some statistics:
- According to the 2020 data from the Department of Health, around 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from at least one type of mental, neurological, or substance use disorders.
- The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that 4,420 people died due to intentional self-harm in 2020, compared to 2,810 in 2019. Suicide was the 25th leading cause of death in 2020, up from 31st in 2019.
- Moreover, a recent report revealed that 1 in 5 Filipino adults has a mental issue.
- During that same period, the National Center for Mental Health received over 700 calls per month.
These statistics emphasize the urgent need for improved response and assistance in the Philippines. It is crucial to address the stigma, increase awareness, and provide on-hand and affordable mental well-being services to meet the growing demand.
Government Efforts
The Philippine government has taken significant steps to address such issues and provide timely response and assistance to individuals in need. One of the key initiatives is the Republic Act 11036, also known as the Mental Health Act of 2018. This landmark legislation aims to integrate mental well-being services into primary healthcare and emphasizes prevention, education, and research.
Republic Act 11036 (Mental Health Act of 2018)
Under the Act, mental well-being services are now an integral part of the country’s healthcare system. This means that individuals can access help and assistance through their primary healthcare providers, making it easier to access and convenient for those seeking help. The act also emphasizes the importance of prevention, recognizing that early intervention and education can play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being.
Philippine Council for Mental Health (PCMH)
To oversee the implementation of the Mental Health Act and set national policies and guidelines, the Philippine Council for Mental Health (PCMH) was established. The PCMH plays a vital role in ensuring that mental well-being services are effectively provided and that the provisions of the act are upheld. They work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and health professionals, to create a comprehensive and coordinated approach to emotional and mental wellness in the country.
DOH, WHO launch Philippine Council for Mental Health Strategic Framework 2024-2028 @Teddybird @WHOPhilippines https://t.co/8rVlIRRT9T
— Dr Jasmine Vergara (@DoctorJas) October 13, 2023
Mental Health Hotlines
In addition to the integration of mental wellness services into primary healthcare, the Department of Health operates a 24/7 mental well-being hotline.
- The first is the 24/7 crisis hotline (1553), which provides immediate assistance and aid to individuals experiencing a health crisis of this nature. Trained professionals are available round the clock to listen, provide guidance, and connect individuals to appropriate resources.
Civil Society Organizations
There are several civil society organizations that are dedicated to providing help and assistance to individuals struggling with health issues affecting the mind in the Philippines. These organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, offering counseling services, facilitating support groups, and promoting health education of the mind. Let’s take a closer look at some of these organizations and the services they offer:
National Center for Mental Health (NCMH)
The National Center for Mental Health is a government-run institution that serves as the country’s leading psychiatric hospital. NCMH offers a wide range of services, including outpatient consultations, inpatient care, and emergency psychiatric services. They have a team of professionals who provide counseling, therapy, and medication management. NCMH also conducts training programs and workshops to enhance mental well-being literacy among healthcare professionals and the general public.
The Philippine Mental Health Association is a non-governmental organization that has been at the forefront of this specific advocacy in the country for over 60 years. PMHA offers counseling services, support groups, and educational programs to promote mental wellness. They have branches nationwide, making their services available to individuals in different regions. PMHA also conducts community outreach programs to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental and emotional well-being.
The Natasha Goulbourn Foundation is a non-profit organization that focuses on suicide prevention and mental and emotional health services. They provide free and confidential crisis helplines, which are available 24/7. The foundation also conducts health education programs in schools and communities to promote early intervention and destigmatize mental well-being issues. Their advocacy is inspired by the story of Natasha Goulbourn, a young woman who lost her battle with depression.
MindNation is a mental health and well-being company that offers various services to individuals, schools, and workplaces. They provide online counseling sessions with licensed psychologists and mind health coaches. The organization also offers webinars, workshops, and training programs to promote awareness and resilience. Their goal is to make this type of well-being assistance within reach, convenient, and stigma-free.
MentalHealthPH is an online platform that aims to provide resources, information, and help to Filipinos. They offer a directory of health professionals, support groups, and treatment facilities across the country. The platform also provides articles, videos, and infographics on various health topics involving the mind to educate and empower individuals. Their online community serves as a safe space for people to share their experiences and seek guidance.
KonsultaMD is a telehealth service that offers 24/7 access to licensed doctors and psychologists through phone or video consultations. They provide mental well-being assessments, counseling, and medication management. This service aims to make health services more reachable, especially for individuals who may have limited mobility or live in remote areas.
Finding Help
Looking for someone to talk to? Reach out to NCMH Crisis Hotline, a supportive and understanding resource. They offer a toll-free number for Luzon-wide landlines, as well as dedicated numbers for GLOBE / TM and SMART / SUN / TNT subscribers. Remember, you’re not alone in your struggles. NCMH Crisis Hotline is here to listen and provide assistance. Let’s face tough times together and prioritize our mental well-being.
Kumusta ka? Tara, usap tayo!
Lagi kaming #HandangMakinig sa inyo. Maaari ninyo kaming tawagan sa mga sumusunod na numero:
▪ 1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free)
GLOBE / TM Subscribers
▪ 0917-899-8727
▪ 0966-351-4518SMART / SUN / TNT Subscribers
▪ 0908-639-2672 pic.twitter.com/vJookwHeau— NCMH Crisis Hotline (@ncmhhotline) February 19, 2021
Want to learn more about this important topic and how to seek help if you’re in the Philippines? Here’s a resource in Filipino provided by the Department of Health.
Video: Mental Health Awareness
How are you? You may be feeling happy, worried, or even sad. Whatever you’re feeling, allow yourself to fully experience it. All our emotions are important to understand how to address them. Watch this video to better understand the importance of mental well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the increasing awareness and initiatives surrounding mental wellness in the Philippines reflect a positive shift in attitudes and approaches towards addressing these issues. By acknowledging and prioritizing the well-being of one’s mind, we can improve our personal wellness and create a more compassionate society. Remember, seeking help for health concerns of the mind is a brave and necessary step towards healing and personal growth. Let’s continue to support and uplift one another on this journey towards better mental well-being.