A LOT of people are suffering from anxiety, depression and mental health issues. However, only few people understand these conditions while others are swift to judge that these are just something made up by people for themselves.
A few weeks ago, I was shocked by the news that Kate Spade then later Anthony Bourdain were found dead. The reason for their death was suicide because of depression.
Taking into consideration the situation, the stigma that surrounds mental health is no joke. It is getting harder to ignore. And it’s sad to say that this topic remains misinterpreted and misjudged by others.
To end this, the present administration approved the Philippine Mental Health Law (Republic Act 11026). This only shows that the administration is now protecting both the physical and mental health of every Filipino.
The law defines mental health condition as “a neurologic or psychiatric condition characterized by the existence of a recognizable, clinically-significant disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation or behavior that reflects a genetic or acquired dysfunction in the neurobiological, psychosocial, or developmental processes underlying mental functioning.”
It sounds complicated and many people are suffering from this condition. The passage of the mental health law is a great way to establish a comprehensive national mental health care system because this law does not only cover Metro Manila but every local government unit (LGU) in the entire country.
The law secures the rights and welfare of persons with mental health needs and mental health professionals will provide mental services up to the barangay level, integrate psychiatric, psychosocial, and neurological services in regional, provincial, and tertiary hospitals, improve our mental healthcare facilities, and promote mental health education in educational institutions, workplaces, and communities.
It also penalizes any person who commits any acts in violation of the law. It penalizes any person who fails to secure informed consent of the service user, unless it falls under the exception; violated the confidentiality of information; discriminates against a person with a mental health condition; and administers inhumane, cruel, degrading or harmful treatment not based on medical or scientific evidence.
The law also provides that when it is violated by a juridical person, the penalty shall be imposed upon the directors, officers, employees, or other officials or persons responsible for the offense. If an alien or foreigner violates the law, he shall be immediately deported after service of sentence without need of further proceedings.
The passage of the law only shows that mental health is a very important part of health. Better and easy access to mental health services can help a person exercise his full range of capabilities and potentials. This will also lessen suicide cases and produce better and useful citizens of the country.
To achieve its objectives, let us spread awareness about the law and save a life.
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(Atty. Ayin Dream D. Aplasca practices her profession in Iloilo City. She may be reached thru ayindream.aplasca@gmail.com/PN)
