Localize mental health services, group asks LGUs

Mental health ordinances should be enacted by local government units (LGUs) to localize response and prevent suicide cases, Dr. Carolina Uno-Rayco, Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) national executive director said.

Uno-Rayco also said local mental health ordinances will also boost diagnosis and treatment of persons with mental health needs, and combat stigma, amid the reported rise in suicide cases among young Filipinos.

The PMHA issued the proposal and cited the recent Department of Education (DepEd) report that 2,147 students in the public school system attempted suicide in the academic year 2021-2022.

The report also showed that 404 died due to suicide. Uno-Rayco said more suicide cases surfaced in different parts of the country, especially in rural areas of Sorsogon, Aklan, and Zamboanga.

In the Philippines, mental illness is becoming a common disability and at least 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from mental, neurological, and substance use disorders.

Uno-Rayco further noted that mental health ordinances will complement the Philippine Mental Health Law or Republic Act No. 11036.

Passed in 2018, RA 11036 mandates LGUs to pass local versions of the law in their respective localities.

“While the national government musters the necessary resources for the law to take its full effect, local governments must also keep a close eye and a caring hand for their constituents, ready to respond at a moment’s notice, including augmenting funds for localized services,” Uno-Rayco said.

RA 11036 mandates LGUs to pass local versions of the law in their localities, integrate mental health services into basic health services, as well as establish multi-sectoral stakeholder networks to identify, manage, and prevent mental health conditions, among other duties and responsibilities mandated by law.

PMHA has been working with various LGUs in the country to ensure that they are able to provide and support mental health services locally, the PMHA chief said. With Rio N. Araja