The Philippine Mental Health Act: Its Role, Effect, and Viability in Educational Institutions

by: Demi Marie S. Hilado, JD1

INTRODUCTION

Mental illness is a problem faced by people young and old. It plays a huge part in the overall well-being of an individual and affects how effectively he functions and contributes for the betterment of society. Historically, the Philippines has disregarded its significance, how it takes a toll on the normal citizen. The gravity of its consequences has been prevalent as has been observed in current news, social media, or even from the stories we hear in our localities. Suicide, depression, anxiety disorder, to name a few, has long been present even when the majority refuse to acknowledge it, or has chosen to remain silent despite the horrific effect it has on the normal individual.

With the passage of time, the advances in technology, the ever expanding intellectual and emotional growth and adaptability of society, the once shunned subject has been faced upfront. The Philippines, a country once conservative in this regard, has taken a stand. By the words of the 1987 Constitution, “Section 11. The State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost. “, our government of laws has enacted what is known as Republic Act 11036: Philippine Mental Health Act or “An Act Establishing a National Mental Health for The Purpose of Enhancing the Delivery of Integrated Mental Health Services, Promoting and Protecting the Rights of Persons Utilizing Psychosocial Health Services, Appropriating Funds Therefor and Other Purposes”.

R.A. 11036 is targeted to mentally-ill patients as well as mental health professionals and service providers. It gives prioritization and importance to the effective implementation of the practices and methods to which every Filipino is to be entitled. The main approach to which this law encapsulates is towards support and recovery of patients and with this, a. Specifically, Chapter 5 entitled Education, Promotion of Mental Health is Educational Institutions and the Workplace, mandates the integration of these provisions into the educational system, which is the main focus of this study.  Is the Philippine government on the right direction in the implementation of the act? How do various universities and institutions take in and do their part in promotion of mental health of their students? What are the procedures and programs given by those in authority in taking the effective steps for RA 11036’s accomplishment of its objectives? These answers we will understand, analyze, and use as bases to form our own insights to aid in the attainment of a more secure and comfortable environment for students. It is to ascertain the viability of the Philippine Mental Health Act and how it contributes to the lives of the Filipinos, most especially for students. In addition, the act must also be scrutinized for possible lapses and for suggestions which may help in its implementation which may be beneficial to not only the schools and universities in our locality, but most possibly in the country as well.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to determine how the Philippine Mental Health Act is applied in schools, from the grade school level to the graduate school level in the University of St. La Salle and other educational institutions in the country, to see what may be further done to improve the laws already established in relation to mental health, and what more can the law do to help with those suffering from mental health disorders. The practices being applied and the services readily available to the students by virtue of this act must also be identified. The degree of effectiveness and quality projects being put into action by the institution shall be determined with respect to the performance of the students in school and also their well-being. Furthermore, the present data gathered and the conclusions reached will serve as a guide to give possible suggestions which are not already in practice The results of this study will provide more important information on the mental health of the student which could greatly help the respondents in better understanding their needs. This study also aims to be beneficial towards parents and educators with regards to helping them in dealing with mental health problems that they encounter. Lastly, the conclusions reached of this study can help the school, as well as their guidance counselors, in affirming the already viable practices currently being implemented and address those which may further be improved, based on the researcher’s recommendations.

. In totality, the main purpose of this research is for the academic body in its search for means and methods to advance the ways in which mental health is given priority in academic institutions, and to consider the various options on how the law-making body can be more known and included in its participation to this goal, given the weight of its authority to the people and its service to the citizens which it protects.

METHODOLOGY

In order to achieve these, the researcher formulated questions and conducted interviews with those primarily given the task to effectuate projects, counselling activities, and the like, depending on what particular undertakings are being implemented. Secondary data such as online journals, articles, and previous researches may also be taken notice of for further understanding.

The researcher met and discussed with various professionals in the field of psychology in person and through the use of electronic mail. The first among the renowned interviewees is Dr. Rowena Banes, RG, RPsy, the current Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences in University of St. La Salle, and the recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Professional of the Year for Guidance and Counseling was interviewed at the venue of her office. Dr. Robeeh Ramos, RGC, RPm also participated in the study by providing insightful information on the topic and answered several questions in accomplishment of the objectives. Lastly, Mr. Achilles Isidore, RPm, with a Masters Counselling Psychology III and is a part-time instructor under the Department of Psychology of the Silliman University provided us another point of view for arriving to our conclusions and recommendations.

The secondary data used are likewise sought from reliable journalists, writers, and advocates of mental health in the Philippines, most specifically those involving themselves in educational institutions.  The totality of the information gathered are taken in such a way to comprehensively understand the purpose, subject and the importance of this study.

DISCUSSION

The Evolution of Mental Health Policies in the Philippines

The very first records of mental illnesses in the pre-colonial times were regarded merely as “supernatural occurrences”. It has long been present in society, maybe even the first to ever exist.

It has been detailed that the first ever institutional care of the mentally ill originated at the turn of the 19th century in Hospicio de San Jose. However, it was during the American regime when mental disability began to be recognized just as any other medical illness. Thus, an advocacy towards a more humane approach towards the mentally ill was fostered. (2)

The succeeding decades from the 70s to the 90s paved the way for the movement of psychiatry toward the more biological approach to psychiatric illness. (3) More cutting-edge treatments resulted to more and more breakthroughs in the field. However, a level of inactivity of psychiatric endeavors stemmed from government neglect and society’s indifference towards mental illness issues until the 1980s. To address the longstanding apathy towards mental illness, the government mobilized a multi-sectoral involvement, particularly focusing on community-based interventions. The Department of Health created the Task Force on Mental Health, later named Project Team on Mental Health, which is mainly composed of psychiatrists aiming to come up with much-needed recommendations on organizational reforms. In the late 80s, the Project Team also contributed to proposing two mental health bills highlighting giving priority to community-based mental health care activities, as well as creating a national coordinating body for mental health. (4) However, it is rather untoward that despite such attempts the aforesaid bills, in addition to several other propositions that came after, have not yet been promulgated. As it stands, the Philippines is counted among the minority of countries that still do not have existing mental health legislation by that time.

In 2001, the Philippines established its very first mental health policy. The researchers tasked in this respect made use of data on the country’s socioeconomic status, population health, policies or plans, and mental health-related readiness on the bases of secondary sources, the key purpose of which were to ascertain the strength of the mental health system. From the information gathered, the results shows that most governments funds go to the mental health hospitals and there was no specific budget for mental health set aside by the government. Most service users in fact were paying direct out of their pockets, with the exception of those in need of acute psychosis in-patient care or for drug dependence. Among the objectives of the policy were the reduction of morbidity, mortality, disability, and complications from a mental disorder, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle through the promotion of mental health and a less stressful life. (5). There were however constraints for the DOH in the attainment of the aforementioned goals due to very limited government resources and the prioritization of other health concerns for the department. The department emphasized that the lack of conscious awareness of mental health as an integral component of total health care and of the general health care system, and the lack of political will to implement a comprehensive national mental health program were the main core issues for the government to overcome. Such policy statements included the need for the collaboration between the DOH various sectors and agencies such as the academe, NGOs, legislators, business sectors, pharmaceutical companies, various disciplines, and the different levels of the government: from the municipal scale to the national. The immediate need to provide equitable and accessible quality mental health care, and non-discriminating mechanisms were also sought with regards to the allocation and utilization of resources. A specific section for legislation directed towards the law-making body was also included, stating “cognizant of the need to guarantee the promotion and protection of the rights and freedoms of persons with mental and brain disorders, the formulation and passage of a Mental Health Act shall be advocated”.

In a sense, this policy was the very first to have taken notice and given importance to this area of the overall health of the citizen. It specifically stated in its terms that it was about time the government finally made an effort to protect most specifically people with special mental health needs. Despite the number of people advocating for mental health, and the creation of policies and programs by the DOH, there is a need for protection and stability in this field—the need for the passage of a law—to ensure the effective application and implementation of mental health services, the regulation of mental health providers, and the proper distribution of pharmaceuticals, in support of the needs of those who struggle with their battle against mental illness.

The Constitution and its Implications

Article 2 Section 11 (State Policies)

The constitution does not keep quiet about protecting an individual from harm and abuse of others and the state itself. Article 2 Section 11 entails that “The State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights.” The constitution does not discriminate and does not exclude individuals and entities under its protection. The Philippine Mental Act is an action of the state in honoring the dignity of every person stigmatized and afflicted with mental illness and especially, acknowledging that such problem poses a huge risk in society as a whole. The mere passing of the act itself, indicates and shows an action to take “charge” in addressing the issue head-on in its face value. The Constitution did not prohibit this but enhances it that such an action is not only legal but also constitutional.

Article 3 Section 1 (Bill of Rights)

Article 3 of the Constitution enshrines the Bill of Rights, the rights of individuals of the Philippines in relation to the government. Article 3 Section 1 states that “No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.” The constitution is clear in providing that “no person” shall be deprived of their right of life liberty, or property, it does not classify but rather generalizes that every person has the same rights enumerated in this provision. People with mental illness, albeit, treat differently by society and its inhabitants, are no different from the rest of the people when it comes to being protected under the guise of the Constitution. The Constitution does not bar protection or treating people with mental illness any differently from how normally others are treated, rather it is a duty of the State and other people to uphold and respect the rights of every individual to life, liberty, and property.

Article XIII Section 18 (3) (Human Rights)

Section 18 at first glance talks about Human Rights and the creation of the Commission on Human Rights. The Constitution has an entire provision dedicated to preserving the human rights of the citizens of the country, even those residing abroad. Article XIII Section 18 (3) states that the Commission of Human Rights must “Provide appropriate legal measures for the protection of human rights of all persons within the Philippines, as well as Filipinos residing abroad, and provide for preventive measures and legal aid services to the under-privileged whose human rights have been violated or need protection.” The Philippine Mental Act was created for the purposes of Establishing a National policy, enhancing the experience of the delivery of services, promoting, and protecting the Rights of Persons afflicted with mental illness. The creation of such an act is due to the fact that it acknowledges that this classification of individuals need protection all the more. It is further affirmed in the subsequent provisions.

Article XIII Section 18 (5) (Human Rights)

Under this provision it states that the Commission must “Establish a continuing program of research, education, and information to enhance respect for the primacy of human rights;” this is deeply rooted to a portion of this study’s objective in identifying what more can be done to improve the Law. The Constitution makes it clear that establishing a clear understanding of Human Rights is not a done and easy deal, it is continuing process of revisions and improvements which needs to be apply to make it the best form that it may be. The Philippine Mental Act may as well be a result of continuing research and as a solution to a problem which has recently been identified to be urgent. The Constitution helps guides the framers of the law to create a better solution to future problems which may arise as a result of impediments and even progress.

Article XIII Section 18 (7) (Human Rights)

In ties with the aforementioned paragraph and article, it states the following; that the Commission “Monitor the Philippine Government’s compliance with international treaty obligations on human rights”.  It is to no surprise on the standing of the Philippines in comparison to the other countries which have more advanced understanding on mental illnesses. Organizations such as the WHO continually conduct research to better understand the effects of various mental illnesses and how it may be potentially addressed and even be cured. The Philippine Mental Health Act has been patterned from not only understood research and information in the Philippines but also those information from countries more advanced on the topic such as the United States. The continual presence and hands on of the United Nations in addressing the World’s problems is also identified in the Philippine Constitution, where the Philippine Government is tasked to always be on the look out either on their violations or obligations on Human Rights.

Article XIV Section 1 (Education)

Article XIV Section 1 states “The State shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels, and shall take appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all.” Given that the constitution itself states that Education plays an important role in promoting the citizen’s rights, it is also to be acknowledged that the Philippine Mental Health Act should be given its utmost importance in the process of educating the citizens of the Philippines, in the topics of the stigma of mental illness in society.

Article XIV Section 2 (1) (Education)

Articlee XIV Section 2 (1) enhances the aforementioned provision, it states that the State shall “Establish, maintain, and support a complete, adequate, and integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people and society;” The clause relevant to the needs of the people and society, is a testament to the fact that an actual law has been passed about Mental Health. Advancements to the curricula and also of the societal norms and cultures means that education should also be improved in time-to-time basis. What was relevant in the past may not be as prevalent in the future, the creation of such a law is testament to that, as mental illness may have been a bigger problem than what it was intended to be.

Article XIV Section 3 (1) (Education)

Article XIV Section 3 (1) is the bread and butter of the section of the Constitution and its relevance to this study, it states that “All educational institutions shall include the study of the Constitution as part of the curricula”. A straightforward provision that states that institutions should be teaching children in school about the importance of the constitution in their day to day lives. It is important to note that a major part of the Constitution is to preserve the human rights of the citizens of the country, and whatever trouble which may afflict them. Applying the study of mental illnesses in the base curricula may not only shed awareness but also give the people a better understanding on how to deal with the situation and how the state may benefit from a bigger sample size of people who know the situation.

Article XIV Section 4 (1) (Education)

The state does not just safeguard the rights of the people, but also safeguards institutions from playing their roles in the society, such as Article XIV Section 4 (1) states “The State recognizes the complementary roles of public and private institutions in the educational system and shall exercise reasonable supervision and regulation of all educational institutions.” The state itself sees the importance of educational institutions as part of the character and value building of the people of the Philippines. The unawareness and the lack nature of society in addressing mental illnesses becomes apparent as a result, and having awareness may help the state make a better law or even improve the Philippine Mental Health Act as a direct result of the action.

The Constitution plays an important role in establishing the best possible legal grounds for making such an act. The law in question and its importance to society is no longer a question of constitutionality but rather a question on how best to apply the law and on why it should become as important as other laws in terms of weight of importance. The Constitution gives us a better understanding on where laws should be anchored in, and how it helps that it has a better groundwork coverage if it explicitly or implicitly stated in the constitution.

Mental Health and the Law

The purpose of the law is to regulate guidelines that the ordinary citizen may conform to and is the carrying out of the duty of the legislative in order to create an organized, productive and , holistic environment for public welfare in general. Mental health on the other hand includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.(1)  One might ask, how two completely different subject converge in its effect to society. Both similarly are controlling factors as to the quality of life of everyone living under the State. The government is tasked to enact laws in response to the needs of the public, be it economic, social, penal or health-related. Its function to regulate, which directly affects how professionals involved in these various sectors deal and conduct their roles, all toward a better, more collaborative and holistic community.

It is indisputable that the health of an individual is of utmost priority. It is a never-ending concern for lawmakers, that the government and its agencies carry out enough programs and policies in order to ensure that each individual, including those living in the most far-reaching places, have access to hospitals, medicine, nurses, and the like. Thus, it is a function of such public officers to look into the most prevalent issues as to health care that must be given attention and to provide such solutions.

In the past years, each presidential term has come up with various laws to answer the corresponding problems encountered. During the term of President Marcos, the Congress passed what is known as the Philippine Medical Care Act of 1969 which established the Philippine Medical Care Plan and a commission thereof. This later became The National Health Insurance Act of 1995. The latter paved the way for the creation of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, most commonly known as PhilHealth, mandated to provide social health insurance coverage to all Filipinos. (Philhealth, n.d.) Another act mandated for the promotion of healthcare is Republic Act 1891: An Act Strengthening Health and Dental Services in the Rural Areas, whose purpose was the creation of certain positions in the local governments that focused on directly addressing health concerns of the smaller populations within cities and provinces. Such positions include a Municipal Health Officer, a Public Health Dentist, Nurse, Midwife, and Pharmacist, and stated the corresponding salaries. The act was intended for the immediate response of LGUs to their citizens living in rural areas without the complexities of undergoing the usual legislative processes. A few other laws worth noting are Republic Act 1136: An Act recognizing the Division of Tuberculosis in the DOH, Presidential Decree 491: An Act Establishing The National Nutrition Council, Presidential Decree 856: The Sanitation Code of the Philippines, and many others (Rnpedia, 2017).

Despite the numerous legislative endeavors mentioned, there seemed to be a lack of progress in the area of promoting mental wellness in the country. It may even be said that there was a clear absence of recognition towards mental health.  That sickness is not always manifested physically is the idea that was being asserted by psychologists, psychometricians, and psychiatrists in the Philippines. It was time that the government address the stigma that is associated with mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorders, and anxiety just to name a few. It is a sickness not only shared by the chosen few, but by everyone. This stigma may be traced to the pride Filipinos have in adapting to adverse and tragic situations that have long started in the generations that have passed. Historian Jose Canoy sees Filipino resilience as a defense mechanism, assumed by many in the absence of choice. So it’s become common to practice to solve problems on our own and to downplay mental health issues—whether it’s our own experience or that of someone close to us (Hello Doctor, 2021). As previously mentioned, the mere sharing of advocacies, experiences, and education of only those interested and affected are not enough. It is with these ideologies that lawmakers signed the first ever mental health law in the history of the Philippines: Republic Act No. 11036 on June 21, 2018.

R.A. 11036 and its Role in Educational Institutions

The Philippine Mental Health Act, the very first of its kind, provides a rights-based mental health law and a comprehensive framework for implementing optimal mental health care in the Philippines (fdhi admin, 2022). It was proposed more than 3 years before its enactment. Before its passage, clinicians lacked guidance on the legal and ethical aspects of their practice, and patients` rights were not clearly defined. The act created an enabling environment for the organization and delivery of hospital and community mental health care in the Philippines, while providing specific legal controls to ensure the protection of the rights of patients receiving mental health care and treatment (fdhi admin, 2022).

This act, first and foremost, gives priority in obtaining prior consent of the service user before treatments begin. Some of the important aspects of this law is that it deals with the protection of rights of those who are mentally disordered admitted to psychiatric institutions, the protection of minors, the allocation of resources, to institutions dedicated to mental health, the establishment of procedural safeguards to protect the rights of mentally disordered persons, and even reaching those of mentally disordered offenders. Local government units are also given the task in addressing and taking notice in dealing with these issues, as specifically stated in the act.

Under Chapter 5 of R.A. 11036 entitled Education, Promotion of Mental Health in Educational Institutions and the Workplace, it specifically provides that by virtue of the act, the State shall ensure the integration of mental health into the educational system. Schools, universities, and colleges are required to develop policies and programs for its students, educators, and employees, designed to raise awareness on mental health issues, identify and provide support and services for individuals at risk, and facilitate access, including referral mechanisms of individuals with mental health conditions to treatment and psychosocial support. It further provides that all public and private educational institutions must have a complement of mental health professionals.

As it can be clearly understood, the lawmakers did not forget to include the mental health of students who can benefit from the passage of the law.

Philippine Mental Health Law (R.A. 11036) and its Improvements

Facing the problem of mental health in the Philippines is a task that not many are designed to deal with. The recent survey conducted by Gallup (2019) on their Global Emotions report ranked the Philippines as one of the “world’s most emotional countries”. Most Filipinos have the idea that the culture of catharsis is helpful on their current situation, which results to them seeking help from their family and friends instead of professionally.  It is also normally part of the culture of Filipinos to make hasty generalizations for people afflicted with mental illness, such as; “one who cannot function properly in society” or “one who cannot seek to save one’s self”.

The price is also one instant of why it becomes tough for people to seek professional help in the country, it can be costly for others ranging from several thousands of pesos at some times. Reports say that a therapy session from a private hospital cost approximately P2,000 (two thousand pesos). The government strictly address all these obstacles in the improvement of the recent Philippine Mental Health Law, where in there was a huge increase in coverage of “confinement, checkups, and mental health patients.” This means that most of the obstacles which would have been an impediment for fixing an approachable disease becomes a reality and a possibility for the masses.

The Philippine Mental Health Law provides mental health services from various hospitals in the country and these therapy sessions are usually covered by the insurance provided by Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (known as Philhealth).

Deep Roots in Filipino Culture

The World Health Organization (WHO) has a rough estimation of 1 of 4 people globally experiences mental or neurological disorders in their overall lives. Filipinos normally have the trait of “openness”. This causes a lot of misconceptions in Philippine society, as social issues are treated like its normal to talk about and not make it such a big issue. This trait both has its pros and cons when it comes to how it is portrayed, but normally, due to how Filipinos acknowledge mental illness, it becomes apparent that the lax nature of the people is what makes the problem such a serious issue in society in the first place.

The aforementioned R.A. 11036,addresses not only the financial issues but also how Filipinos treat the situation. The law provides for a venue to assess and address the stigma of mental illness present in Philippine society, and usually it becomes easily accessible and available to various private and also public hospitals along the country.

Effects of the Law on Educational Institutions

Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, institutions of higher education (IHEs) have suffered significant transformations. Many schools are struggling with how to support students in their learning environment, whether it be remote, hybrid, or in-person, more than a year after the United States’ initial lockdowns. Mental health is a crucial area of support for students at IHEs because, according to reports, many of them experience loneliness and isolation as a result of the pandemic’s effects. (Hunt Institute, 2021)

On college campuses, there is a rising problem with student mental health. According to research by the Chronicle of Higher Education, presidents and leaders in student affairs ranked student mental health as their top priority as the incidence of melancholy, anxiety, eating disorders, and other issues among student populations continues to rise. A clinically significant mental health problem is present in approximately seven million college students, according to the nationwide Healthy Minds Study (HSM).

Prioritizing Mental Health | Students’ perceptions of colleges and universities have changed as a result of the pandemic’s impact on mental health, particularly in regards to their capacity to support students’ mental health. According to a recent survey of prospective students, 50% of respondents have altered their minds about how important mental health services are for students, and 60% said that these services are a very significant consideration when choosing a school. In IHEs, districts and education partners should collaborate closely to provide all students’ mental health initiatives top priority.

Partner with other IHEs, public, and/or private entities to combine resources for supporting student mental health | In order for IHEs to administer mental health services during the pandemic and in the future, partnerships have been essential. In order to remove some obstacles that students encounter while seeking assistance outside of their college counseling facility, the State University of New York (SUNY) expanded its cooperation with Thriving Campus in October. Thriving Campus’s platform was created to make it easier to refer students who require “specialist, long-term care.”

Leverage technology to support students in various learning environments | By creating online or in-person counseling tools and creating areas for students to interact with peers and instructors, institutions can still help students using telehealth services. Let’s Talk is a virtual counseling program that Appalachian State University has established to allow students to meet with counselors one-on-one. Additionally, group teletherapy is provided at Appalachian State University, where students can attend a variety of programs to discuss mental health issues. Increased funding for counselors and in-person counseling sessions will also be essential. It will be vital to build strong in-person and online counseling services because students will be returning to IHEs in the autumn.

Develop a clear, comprehensive communication plan that addresses student mental health concerns | Due to the pandemic’s effects, students pursuing higher education are increasingly concerned about the availability of mental health resources. As a result, academic accommodations and mental health support should not only be easily accessible throughout IHEs but also clearly, frequently, and through a variety of channels communicated to students. It is possible to quickly and effectively disseminate information on these services across campuses by using low-cost methods, like adding information on mental health services on syllabi and bulletins.

Assess the needs of diverse students to tailor mental health services and programs | The demands of their student population must first be understood by those involved in education. The specific needs of different student groups, such as students of color, first-generation college students, LGBTI students, international students, and low-income students, can be highlighted through gathering data through student surveys and dialogues. Diverse student viewpoints are crucial for informing institutional mental health policies and identifying gaps in current mental health services. IHEs should therefore take into account giving students the chance to voice their demands through surveys, focus groups, forums, and open dialogues. Additionally, lawmakers and IHE leaders should think about funding the hiring of counselors who can relate to students from underrepresented and/or marginalized populations, providing them with the resources and a safe space in which to talk about mental health.

The La Sallian Approach to the Mental Health of Students

Interview Portion

Interviewee A

An interview was conducted to gather further information on various programs offered by the mental health services to the college students of the University of St. La Salle, the first question the researcher asked the interviewee was specific information on the programs implemented in the University of St. La Salle and whether the programs are the same for the whole population or for a certain group. The interviewee answered that “The Guidance and Evaluation Centers provides a holistic Guidance Program to college students that includes counseling (individual or by group) whether walk-in, sought out or referred clients; Testing service by giving them assessments on College Adjustment, Depression and Stress Survey.” The interviewee added that the office keeps a centralized file for every individual who availed of the service and the guidance program continually initiates enrichment sessions or seminars. The enrichment sessions were not limited to the undergraduate programs but also for the professional Schools (Medicine, Law, Graduate School). There are certain programs offered according to the Interviewee, these are the Meal programs which helps those who are financially challenged and most of the students are in the Students Assistance Program as well.  The Meal Programs as the name suggests gives free lunches to those who availed it, usually supported by generous donors. Another unique program is the Children with Parents Abroad Support Group, where students whose parents work abroad regularly gather to discuss their own problems, difficulties, and experiences in a supportive environment.

The second question references the opinion of the interviewee on the present initiatives being taken by the university in promoting mental health awareness to the students. The interviewee states that the University is hands on supportive to the mental health initiatives of the Guidance office and to them, this serves as a good indicator of their awareness of that portion of the student’s life. Accordingly, the administrators themselves allot a lot of funds as premiums for its activities.

The third question asked to the interviewee focuses more on the common reasons of students coming to the office for the consultation. In order to focus on specific portions of the topic, the researcher limited the answer to three (3) instances. The interviewee answered that Relationship issues takes the top of the list. It was further explained that it could originate from personal issues and unresolved past trauma, usually, they would be referred to psychiatrists for therapy if ever counselling is not enough. Next issue brought up are personality issues or temperaments which has a bearing on a person’s attitude. The main approach is usually reprogramming or re-framing which is introduced to those with self-esteem and self-worth issues which affects daily functioning and over-all mental state. The last issue would be academic related and basic tips on how to improve their standing in school and management.

The fourth question is focused more on the interviewee as a practitioner to their craft, the researcher asked whether they were aware of certain laws enacted by the Government mostly focusing on the mental illness in the country. The interviewee is well aware and is also one of the pioneers of the Grandfathers’ Clause under R.A. No. 9258 or the Guidance and Counselling Act of 2004. It “recognizes the importance of advancing and protecting the guidance and counseling profession by establishing preventive regulatory mechanisms and standards of practice” A guidance counselor can only practice, after passing the Board exam and even prior to taking the exam, the individual must have finished or have a degree in Guidance and Counseling or any allied courses first. The interviewee then cited the Magna Carta of Women (R.A. No. 9710) or the Gender and Development Program. The last law cited is the R.A. No. 11036 (An Act Establishing a National Mental Health Policy for the Purpose of Enhancing the Delivery of Integrated Mental Health Services, Promoting and Protecting the Rights of Person Utilizing Health Services, Appropriating Funds Therefore and Other Purposes.)

The interviewee was then asked if there is a relationship between the law with the mental well-being of a normal person and how so does it relate. The interviewee answered that Laws usually regulate the behaviors and standards but in terms of mental well-being, it is “an evolution on the part of the person considering his or her different influences, upbringing, biological predisposition.” (2023) to quote the interviewee. To sum it up there is a relationship between the law and the mental well-being. The next question asked by the researcher references to the interviewee to rate the effectiveness of the University’s approach and response to the needs of the students, 8 out of 10 is what they answered.

The consequent question also relates to the practitioner in their craft, as to if there are any possible lapses in the system in dealing with the mental health of students which the university may need to further improve. The interviewee answered the question as quoted, “The mechanism set for a specific circumstance must be in the awareness of all the stakeholders and I consider it to be lapses if the supposed to be person who knows the procedure is not aware because it will have implications especially on critical issues and urgent cases.”

The next question asks about the recommendations and suggestions which the interviewee themselves would like to address. The first recommendation was for the students that they must be made aware that they have their support systems aside from their friends and families and that a professional help from an expert will go a long way. The improvement of more information dissemination would also be essential as a ratio of five hundred (500) students to one (1) counselor should be observed as this unrealistic scenario of being able to reach everyone may not be that possible.

Interviewee B

Another interviewee was asked on the same set of questions however, the questions started on question number four, in regards to what mental health services are being offered to college students and if are there particular programs implemented for a certain group.  The interviewee answered that “I think of the very important program the university/school should ensure is a proper guidance and counseling program because it would serve as the first in line “catchers” of probable students going through difficulties especially on adjustments and career orientations. A proper guidance and counseling program is a form of a preventive measure to students to experience more serious mental disorders. With RA 9258 / Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004, this professionalizes guidance counselors in their field and that hiring of guidance counselors in the university must also adhere to this act. “(2022)

The next question asked to the interviewee are the possible lapses in the system on the topic of mental health of the students and what possible improvements could be made. A unique identification that the interviewee was able to point out is that there are still schools and universities in the Philippines that do not usually hire licensed guidance counselors allowing anyone without the proper guidelines on guidance counseling especially concerning issues in college such as adjustments and vocational concerns.

The last question asked to the interviewee relates to their skills and experienced garnered and any possible suggestions or recommendations that they may give to the existing programs and services. To quote the interviewee, “I think it’s very important for student to recognize their current emotional, physical and psychological state in order to facilitate in the proper interventions necessary. The problem is that people are reluctant for a formal help-seeking because of the stigma the society put in these issues. According to a research study from Brown, Co, Lau & Martinez (2020), cultural variables such as shame, stigma and collectivist beliefs such as over fatalism discourage Filipinos to seek formal help in mental health.”

Interviewee C (Volunteer Psychologist for Gabriella and Volunteer Community Psychologist)

The interviewee at this portion was asked various questions about the topic of this research. The researcher gave the opportunity for the interviewee to explain their knowledge on the topic and give their insights to further bolster the topic to greater lengths. The researcher prompted to start the conversation going by opening the topic on mental health laws in the Philippines. The interviewee talked about how mental health issues have been rampant as of late due to the pandemic hitting the country last 2020, it has become apparent that there is an overwhelming number of people who had experienced isolation further adding to their states of depression. The interviewee shared that a group was created in support of the passing of R.A. No. 9262 and submitted to the LGUs a proposal to also consider the Mental health of employees, and etc. Above all things they have been carried out which is evidence of success.

When asked about the issues of Mental Health there are a few salient points discussed by the Interviewee. The first point is the issue of stigmatizing, that due to the issue gaining traction from the Mental Health Law people get the misconception that people afflicted with the illness have way more problems in their hands. There are also problems when purchasing medicines at it becomes apparent that some medicines can be abused when purchased by people who are not even advised to take them. However, it is not all the time that there will only be issues, because of the law, the interviewee shared that it made people outside the reach to be helped by providing psychological examinations. It also becomes apparent that it has become a collaborative community effort. Practitioners, LGUs and schools also become conscious of the merits and benefits brought upon by the law, this in turn makes the government pour in funding and resources not just money but also skill building which should help further improve the processes of handling people afflicted with mental illness.

The next question focuses on what USLS offers to their students in the mental health portion. The interviewee commented that it is a collaborative effort, of the administration and the guidance office in ensuring that it is effectively implemented to provide for the best experience. The efforts are mostly focused to aiding, assisting students in the process of dealing with their mental illnesses. The guidance office can also indirectly or directly help the students by talking or referring them to psychiatrists, this is similar to answers given by the previous interviewees. The most common psycho-educational learning sessions: focuses more on counseling, webinars, to detect and monitor- faculty, students, and parents. The interviewee claims that most students who go to the office usually state that school is their main escape from problems originating from home, and there have so far been no cases of successful suicides. The interviewee wants to also give light to trying to tell everyone in the world that caring for mental health is a collective responsibility and coming with it is respecting the dignity of everyone as a concerted effort. The interviewee wants to shed more light into looking at it a collaborative care process, and at a developmental stage. The law should not be focused only as a law but must also become a lifestyle which should be integrated to the institutional lifestyle of students. The Guidance office had also collaborated with the College of Law highlighting R.A. No. 9262 – where it talks about mastering the law and sharing the values of such a law. During the pandemic, it was also to be noted that in masters and PhD program, they established Western Visayas Psychosocial Support Service Online Base Counseling.

The interviewee was then asked whether the program was effective for the student, and they have a few things to say. That yes, it is, but they must try to intensify the program. They must also focus in teaching practical skills on the application of the law and institutionalizing the services to the students with special needs for persons with mental health issues which may in turn affect academics. Mental health issues from then on have evolved for the worse.

The most common reasons as listed by the Interviewee are; psychological issues (emotional instability of parental absence), mental health issues which affects studies and relationships, courtship violence, dysfunctional realities at home, questioning their own self-worth and other schools seeking out USLS.

The interviewee most importantly stressed that All agencies must have Mental Health Programs as mandated by R.A. No. 9262. When asked by the researcher if mental health was not important before the law was passed, they answered that “even before we have been integrating, but it was after the law that it was consciously affected, that people and schools was understood more. mental health, approved.” it was then when mental health breaks were implemented in the school. When asked about mental health and the law, the interviewee said that you could advocate all you want but with government action, people are still deprived of access. These are however, success indicators, as there is a growing sense of awareness.

The next lengthy topic was the possible lapses of mental health programs, and there are a lot of salient points, which were exclaimed by the interviewee. There are limited number of experts in the field, and in every school the ratio is 1:500 further exclaiming the lack of luxury for the number of psychologists. To make things severe, the number has been bumped up to 1:800. USLS already has a committee to cater to the students with special needs in how it may affect the student’s performance and also in the process of drafting guidelines. USLS also has the greatest number of licensed psychologists, if anything were to happen the school has their back. There are only a few numbers of psychiatrists to recommend medicines in the province. When it comes to mental health programs it is better to have the parents involved.

After 35 years of service to the institution, the interviewee was asked what do they expect in the future, or any recommendations and ideas. In the future, the interviewee wants to embody the teachings of St. La Salle teaching minds and touching hears. The interviewee wants to see La Salle in the future address gender discrimination, magna carta for women, CHED mandates, students and staff more sensitive to genders, enabling La Salle as a safe place, to protect the LGBTQ community, conducting workshops for LGBTQ coming out no more fears and apprehensions, better sensitivity and rules on cross dressing not available to transgenders. The school, USLS, itself is not ready due to its conservatism, and further research of the LGBTQ in catholic schools and the stigma to be validated of identity would not make the school less of a university when they accept that. The most important aspect however, is not to jeopardize catholic principles but to reinforce values and conclusiveness as a school, to be empowered to bring up issues and coexist and validate.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental health plays a significant role in the emotional and physical well-being of a person. However, historically, the Government of the Philippines has given little attention to mental health in the Philippines. The research has made it clear that the country and the people who reside in it have the common misunderstanding that mental illness is a problem which could not be entirely addressed just by drinking medicine and consoling words of wisdom. The problem of mental illness has become a stigma in the country which was only then recently addressed by the passed law. The main issue however is, regardless of the law, it is rather clear that there is still a huge lack of awareness not just in schools, workplaces but society as a whole.

The research shows that there are better approaches when the Government and its sectors dedicate resources both financial and skill-based to the table. Mental Illness should be addressed as soon as possible as it is becoming a huge problem to various Filipinos.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The researcher recommends to the policy makers to focus on conducting more research on the topic of mental illness to have a better reach, scope and coverage of the Philippine Mental Health Law. The researcher also adds that international research on the topic may prove useful to create a better law to be applied to the Philippines. There is a lack of awareness on the society when it comes to the topic of mental illness, the researcher urges the education sector to add the topic of mental health awareness to the curriculum of students at both under the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education and their respective programs. The researcher urges an improvement on recommending students to take on the course of becoming a guidance counselor or psychiatrist due to the lack of manpower in the respective career path. The researcher recommends to open the research to include people afflicted with the disease to have a better perspective on future researchers on the effects of the law on the actual recipients.

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Written By:Winona Rica L. SigueWinona is an accounting student at the University of Santo Tomas. She contributes articles for Edukasyon.ph. Her artistic pursuits inspire her to paint and watch theatre plays. She embraces a minimalist lifestyle., Winona Rica L. SigueWinona is an accounting student at the University of Santo Tomas. She contributes articles for Edukasyon.ph. Her artistic pursuits inspire her to paint and watch theatre plays. She embraces a minimalist lifestyle., Sigue, W. R. L., & Winona is an accounting student at the University of Santo Tomas. She contributes articles for Edukasyon.ph. Her artistic pursuits inspire her to paint and watch theatre plays. She embraces a minimalist lifestyle. (n.d.). How will students benefit from the mental health law? Edukasyon.ph. Retrieved February 7, 2023, from https://www.edukasyon.ph/blog/how-will-students-benefit-from-the-mental-health-law

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to take this opportunity to express by deep and sincere gratitude to  Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, Undersecretary for the Department of Information and Communications Technology,  for the opportunity to create this research that hopefully would be of use to future researchers, educators, and students as well. This research would also not have been possible without the distinguished professionals in the field of Psychology whom have given their precious time to give their insights on the subject of mental health in educational institutions: Dr. Rowena Banes, RG, RPsy, for the great and insightful interview on how educators and parents share in the overall well-being of a student, and her aspirations for the future generation. It is an honor to have conversed with a true advocate pf mental health. Dr. Robeeh Ramos, RGC, RPm, for answering vital questions in this research and sharing her views on the current climate of mental wellness. Lastly, Mr. Achilles Isidore, RPm, for giving time despite his busy schedule in entertaining the queries I had regarding his experiences and personal knowledge on the matter.

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER

Demi Marie S. Hilado is a 1^st year Juris Doctor Student from the University of St. La Salle, where she also completed her degree under the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy program in the year 2019.