DESPITE the growing recognition of mental health as a public health issue, the stigma surrounding it remains a barrier to care in Western Visayas. Mental health conditions, often misunderstood and underdiscussed, are still seen by many through a lens of shame or weakness, discouraging those who need help from seeking it. The Department of Health’s crisis hotlines, which have received 1,468 calls from the region, provide a lifeline to those grappling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. But the question remains: How many more are suffering in silence, too afraid or embarrassed to reach out?
Mental health stigma is deeply embedded in cultural beliefs, misconceptions, and a general lack of understanding. In many communities, mental illness is still associated with weakness, laziness, or even a lack of faith. These stereotypes not only isolate individuals who need support but also prevent open conversations about mental well-being. As a result, people are less likely to seek professional help, leading to worsening conditions and, in some cases, tragic outcomes such as suicide.
The data from the National Center for Mental Health is worrisome. Of the 83,655 calls received since the crisis hotlines were launched, 25,775 were suicide-related. This underscores the need to dismantle the stigma that keeps people from asking for help. Mental illness is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness — it is a health condition like any health issue requiring appropriate care and treatment.
Addressing the stigma starts with education. Public awareness campaigns must challenge misconceptions about mental health and promote the message that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Schools, workplaces, and community centers are ideal platforms for disseminating information about mental health and offering accessible resources for those in need. It is also essential to include mental health education in school curricula, so the younger generation grows up with a better understanding of mental health and empathy toward those who are struggling.
Local leaders, religious institutions, and public figures have an important role to play in normalizing mental health conversations. When well-respected individuals speak openly about mental health and endorse help-seeking behavior, it sends a powerful message that it is okay to not be okay — and that support is available. This can help shift the narrative around mental health, making it easier for people to talk about their struggles without fear of judgment.
Many individuals avoid seeking help because they fear exposure or judgment from others. Ensuring that mental health services are readily available and maintaining confidentiality is key to breaking down these barriers. Crisis hotlines, telemental health services, and private counseling options must be expanded across Western Visayas, particularly in rural areas where access to mental health professionals is limited.
Family support is another crucial component. Families need to be educated on how to respond compassionately when a loved one is facing a mental health challenge. Too often, families dismiss or downplay mental health issues, either out of fear or ignorance. By fostering open, nonjudgmental conversations, a family can create a supportive environment where individuals feel safe reaching out for help.
Finally, local governments must ensure that mental health policies are implemented in their communities. Republic Act 11036, the Mental Health Act, mandates mental health awareness and the establishment of mental health services at the local level. However, its effectiveness depends on local government units (LGUs) taking the initiative to allocate resources, conduct public awareness campaigns, and create safe spaces for individuals seeking mental health support.
Mental health is a shared responsibility. It is not just the job of the DOH or mental health professionals. Each of us, as members of the community, has a role to play in creating an environment where mental health is taken seriously, where stigma is eliminated, and where seeking help is encouraged.
