Cartoonist: Jorejie Patulin

"MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: Breaking the Silence"

by: Khate Mhyzel Maghanoy


Mental Health as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a "state of well-being in which the individuals cope with the usual stresses of family and community living" or “as fulfillment of each person's potential" is at the heart of public health. In a world where we often focus on physical health, mental well-being can get overlooked. This creates a gap, leaving them to deal with their feelings alone, and thinking that no one would understand their hidden dilemma.

According to Philippine Information Agency, Ma. Dolores Mercado of DOH-10 shared vital mental health statistics, revealing that depression affects 4.4% of the global population while anxiety disorders impact 3.6%. Specifically, In the Philippines, 3.3% of the population, equivalent to 3.3 million Filipinos, grapples with depression. These numbers emphasize how common mental health challenges are. However, by openly discussing and addressing this issue, we can foster a supportive environment, encouraging individuals to share their struggles and seek help. Creating awareness and promoting dialogue is a crucial step towards building a more understanding and compassionate society. Now, let's look at some practical step to improve mental well-being. Here are simple yet effective solutions.

Talk It Out

According to American Psychological Association (APA), expressing emotions and talking about problems can have tangible benefits. When we keep our problems bottled up inside, they can grow into larger issues. Being vulnerable is not a weakness, but rather a strength. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we create space for deeper connections, and more meaningful relationship and we can release some of these emotional burden and find solace in knowing that we are not alone in our struggles. We seek comfort to those unspoken words, thoughts and feelings that we haven't expressed out loud, and seeking out someone who we can introduce every version of us without feeling like we're too much or too less and still worthy of love in depths of our despairs.

Seek Professional Health

Seeking Professional Health can provide individuals with a safe and supportive environment in which to explore their thoughts and feelings. Mental Health Professionals use a variety of approaches, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to help individuals improve their mental health. They are trained to listen without judgments space in which to discuss their concerns. Seeking Professional support for mental health concerns is crucial because mental health issues can have a significant impact on an individuals daily life. It is essential to prioritize mental health care just as we prioritize physical health care because both are an essential aspects of our overall well-being.

Educate Ourselves

In a World full of learning, knowing about mental health is like discovering a superpower that helps us understand ourselves and others better. It's like making friends with mutual understandings. Along the way, we witness that everyone’s journey with mental health are different and special. The same as turning on the lights to reveal our peculiar and unique differences. We learn how to notice when someone need a hand, what might help them feel better when things feel tough. Learning about mental health is like turning quiet talks into big conversations. It changes secrets into shared stories, making the world a place where everyone is entitled and comfortable to share their worries and problems.

Generally, Lets make mental health a top priority. We all go through tough times, and it’s completely fine not to feel good for most times. It doesn't make us weak, it makes us human. By caring for each other and understanding that everyone faces challenges, we can create a world where judgment has no place. Lets build a society that values and supports mental health, making sure no one has to suffer in silence. Just like how the beautiful trees are valued in this world, our life matters.

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