FLORA, Apayao – Around 120 participants gathered for the “Kumusta ka?: Tinig ng Isipan ating Pakinggan” program organized by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and the Far North Luzon General Hospital and Training Center (FNLGHTC) on May 2, 2024, at the Efren U. De San Jose Gymnasium in Flora.
A mental health initiative of the PHO, this event aimed to raise awareness about mental health challenges, combat stigma associated with mental illness, and promote seeking appropriate treatment.
The attendees included students from Flora National High School (FNHS), Saint Joseph High School (SJHS), San Jose Integrated School (SJIS), Allig National Agricultural and Trade High School (ANATHS), Malayugan Integrated School (MIS), and Mayor Ricardo De San Jose Sr. Comprehensive National High School (MRDCNHS), along with teachers, barangay health workers (BHW), Rural Health Unit (RHU) staff, Local Government Unit-Flora (LGU) representatives, and the Provincial Department of Health Unit (PDOHO).
The main objective of this initiative is to guide the development and implementation of mental health policies, programs, and services to address the significant burden of mental illness and promote mental health and well-being in the community.
Embedded in the Philippine Mental Health Law, also known as R.A. 11036, signed on June 8, 2018, is the commitment to uphold the value, promotion, and protection of mental health for all individuals. This law advocates for integrating mental health service delivery into the Universal Health Care (UHC) framework by supporting the rights of individuals seeking psychosocial mental health services.
Despite progress, mental health remains stigmatized and discriminated against in society. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Mark Joleen M. Calban, emphasized the concerning link between mental health issues and suicide, citing 25 cases in 2023 and 7 cases so far in 2024, resulting in a total of 33% of deaths.
The event also included interactive activities such as cheer & yell, a slogan contest, poster-making, and discussions on stress management awareness.
Thus, the necessity to provide people with means and access to mental wellness and managing mental health concerns. By Michelle Acantilado