MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights on Tuesday flagged the urgent need for mental health interventions in the country, citing the "major disruptions and alterations" being experienced by many as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia in a statement emphasized that the Filipino people have endured "the longest uninterrupted quarantine," as Wednesday marks 206 days since Metro Manila was first placed under lockdown. Despite this sacrifice, the Philippines is among the top 20 countries with the most number of COVID-19 cases.
"Medical workers are facing unprecedented challenge in providing healthcare while facing risk and fearful of bringing the virus home. Many of those who lost their loved ones did not have the chance to say goodbye, which heightens their sorrow," De Guia said.
"Thousands have lost their jobs and are beset with uncertainty. The youth are grappling with long distance learning and are unable to have normal social interaction in their crucial development years. Those with mental health conditions are even more vulnerable due to quarantine restrictions," she added.
De Guia further noted that the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) recorded a spike in the monthly hotline calls on depression — from 80 before the lockdown to nearly 400 — emphasizing what she called the "bleak" state of mental health in the country.
"The consequences of the pandemic on the mental health of the citizens, particularly the vulnerable sectors, necessitate that mental health become an integral part of the universal health coverage," CHR's statement read.
The commission acknowledged that the government took several steps to respond to what it called the already deteriorating state of mental health prior to the pandemic, citing "programs and interventions for workplaces, schools, and communities targeting high-risk groups."
The NCMH's 24/7 Crisis Hotline was among these interventions and the commission noted that the hotline has proven "to be essential especially in this period of emergency."
Mental Health Act
However, CHR also urged the implementation Republic Act No. 11036 or the Mental Health Act to "ensure that mental health and wellness programs will reach the grassroots level so that remote communities will not be left behind."
Under this law, the Department of Health is mandated to develop and implement a national mental health program and, in coordination with relevant government agencies, improve awareness and promote effective strategies regarding mental health care.
"To truly cultivate mental health, it must become a way of life. A proactive approach to overall wellness, such as building a culture that promotes mental wellness and mainstreaming difficult conversations related to mental health, are vital," De Guia said.
"As we continue to grapple with COVID-19 and embark into the new normal, let us harness our Filipino sense of togetherness, be generous with our presence, and always respond with compassion to gradually revive optimism and hope especially among those who suffer most," the commission urged. — Bella Perez-Rubio