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MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has called on the government to provide increased attention and funding to address mental health issues at this time of a pandemic.
In its message for National Mental Health Week, CHR said lockdown and stay-at-home policies due to the health crisis gave way to the rise in mental health problems.
The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) in September cited growing anxiety and feelings of sadness among the population due to uncertainties caused by COVID-19.
CHR spokeswoman Jacqueline de Guia pointed to NCMH data, which shows that the average number of calls on its hotlines rose to 400 during the 80 shutdown during the pre-pandemic period.
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“As we observe the partner’s National Mental Health Week here in the Philippines, let’s come together to call for greater investment in mental health so that everyone can have access to psychosocial support and services regardless of location and socioeconomic status,” said De Guia . in a sentence.
“The consequences of the pandemic on the mental health of citizens, particularly the vulnerable sectors, require that mental health becomes an integral part of universal health coverage,” he added.
According to CHR, they understand that the government has already taken steps to ensure the good mental health of Filipinos, but that more comprehensive coverage is still needed to avoid emergencies.
In addition, the commission noted that many people without mental health problems before the pandemic may have developed some conditions due to the environment and the situation caused by the COVID-19 crisis.
“The Philippines has the longest continuous quarantine and is now in the top 20 countries with the highest number of COVID-19 cases. This has a great impact on the current state of mental health of people. Medical workers face unprecedented challenges in providing medical care, while facing risks and fear of bringing the virus home, ”De Guia explained.
“Many of those who lost loved ones did not have a chance to say goodbye, adding to their grief. Thousands of people have lost their jobs and are beset by uncertainty. Young people are dealing with distance learning and cannot have normal social interaction in their crucial developmental years. Those with mental health problems are even more vulnerable due to quarantine restrictions, ”he also said.
Several organizations, including the World Health Organization, have emphasized that the pandemic has affected mental health, as restrictions prevent people from going about their usual routine, which is important for people with mental health conditions.
READ: Toll of mental health pandemic ‘devastating’ – WHO
READ: COVID-19 will have a long-tail effect on mental health, experts predict
In the Philippines, groups have warned of a possible increase in domestic abuse. The groups also warned that lack of access to available modes of education during the pandemic could lead to an increase in suicide incidents.
READ: Mental health of students and teachers is a ‘great challenge’ amid a pandemic: Head of the Department of Education
READ: Why push for classes when the pandemic affects students’ mental health? – CEGP to DepEd, CHEd
“To truly cultivate mental health, it must become a way of life. A proactive approach to general wellness, such as building a culture that promotes mental wellness and integrating difficult conversations related to mental health, is vital. On an individual level, developing habits that strengthen mental toughness can prepare us for the inevitable adversities of life, ”said De Guia.
“As we continue to grapple with Covid-19 and embark on the new normal, let us seize 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 the most,” she added.
KGA
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