Now this is an issue that Filipinos from any and all political persuasions can at least agree on.
The President this week signed the Mental Health Law that provides affordable and accessible mental health services to those who need them.
The passage of the law yields a growing awareness about mental health, something that was unimaginable decades or even years ago.
The law will, in theory, integrate mental healthcare in the public health system, establishing that the well-being of a nation transcends the physical aspect.
Among others, the law would secure the rights and welfare of persons with mental health needs; provide mental health services down to the barangays; integrate psychiatric, psychosocial, and neurologic services in regional, provincial, and tertiary hospitals; improve mental health care facilities; and promote mental health education in schools and workplaces.
In the past, mental health issues were not openly discussed and any person suffering from such had to contend as well with the stigma and prejudice that came with it. There was a certain shame that came with coming forward to say one was facing mental issues—they were sure they would be at the receiving end of jokes, ridicule or disbelief.
Because of this, they were not able to avail themselves of the treatment they needed.
There are many things that can still be improved. For instance, some lawmakers want PhilHealth to cover not only acute attacks or conditions, but regular consultations and treatments for mental well-being.
Moreover, after the law’s passage, the real test would be the law’s implementation in all levels of the public health system, even in schools and workplaces.
For now, this is a sound beginning. Let us not waste the opportunity to rally behind something so unifying, for a change.