EVERYDAY pressures, including long commutes, rising living costs and academic and social demands are taking a toll on Filipinos’ mental well-being, the Philippine Mental Health Association Inc. (PMHA) said as the country observes National Mental Health Month this October.
PMHA cited data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showing 354 deaths due to intentional self-harm nationwide in the first quarter of 2026.
In Metro Manila, the National Capital Region Police Office recorded 111 suicide and self-harm incidents from Jan. 1 to March 23, more than three times the 33 incidents recorded during the same period last year.
Dr. Jason Ligot, PMHA public relations officer, said mental health should be addressed as part of everyday well-being rather than only when a person is already experiencing a serious problem.
“Mental health is not an isolated crisis that happens out of nowhere. It is shaped by our daily environment, including our commutes, workplaces, classrooms, and at times, even at our own homes,” Ligot said.
He also called for greater acceptance of mental health care and urged Filipinos to treat emotional well-being as part of their regular health needs.
“We need to break the myth that mental health conditions are something to be ashamed of or hidden away,” Ligot said. “Prioritizing your emotional well-being isn't a flaw, nor is it a luxury. It is a basic human necessity.”
PMHA said it runs preventive programs through its nine provincial chapters, including school-based interventions, workplace emotional literacy sessions and community support programs.
Among these are the Youth Life Enrichment Program, No Bully Philippines and the Community-Based Mental Health Program, which equips local health workers to provide grassroots psychosocial support.
PMHA is also working with Meta in the Philippines on a campaign focused on the mental well-being of young people online.
Ligot stressed the need for accessible spaces where people can seek professional help without judgment.
“Every Filipino deserves safe, accessible spaces to seek help without judgment,” he said.
"Endurance is not the measure of a Filipino's strength. True strength comes from taking care of and empowering ourselves and one another," he added.
