BAGUIO CITY(PIA) -- The Department of Health Center for Health Development Cordillera (DOH-CHD-CAR) launched here on July 21, 2023 a project that is set to spark a mental health revolution in the region.
 
The project dubbed Project RISE UP or Reaching Individuals for Self-Empowerment through Unified Partnerships aims to promote self-empowerment and mental health awareness through unified partnerships with various stakeholders including the community members, local leaders, and vulnerable population such as the youth.

In  leading  the launching, DOH Undersecretary Dr. Enrique Tayag  emphasized the importance of mental health  which plays a key role in  the emotional, psychological and social well-being.  He talked about the nine signs of mental health concerns  namely feeling anxious or worried, feeling depressed or unhappy, emotional outbursts, sleep problems, weight or appetite changes, quiet or withdrawn, substance abuse, feeling guilty or worthless, and changes in behavior or feelings.

Tayag advised  that if someone   experiences at least four of the  symptoms, he  or she  must consult a mental health professional.

Dr. Alfonso Regala of the Health Promotions Bureau (HPB) shared that the DOH envisions a Healthy Pilipinas where healthy behaviors are the easier choice for everyone, every time, and everywhere.

He cited one intervention for health literacy is the use of Lusog-Isip app ,  the first mobile app for mental health and self-care culturally-adapted for the Philippines. It uses evidence-based screening tools and interventions to help individuals journey towards better overall well-being and healthier coping strategies.

The Lusog-Isip app is available on Android, it is free and available online. It also contains self-care kits that can download on the Healthy Pilipinas page. The   audio version has Bisaya, Filipino and English translations. 

“Adults and young adults who are experiencing mental disorders can ask questions, they can journal their thoughts, they can talk about their emotions and there will be a link where they can be referred to a medical professional,” Regala said. He clarified though that  the tool cannot be a substitute for an actual consultation.

DOH-CHD-CAR Regional Director Rio Magpantay  thanked the stakeholders present. He said that their presence is “an indication that they care for mental health. Not only of their mental health, but the mental health of the people they have in their families, in their offices and in the areas that they serve. Because without mental health, things will be different."

“Hindi po ito para sa Kagawaran ng Kalusugan lamang. Ito po ay para po sa ating lahat. Ito po ay [para sa] kahit kanino at kahit po sino ay puwedeng makialam,” he said.

By imprinting their hands in green paint on a canvas, the participants signified their solidarity in recognizing the importance of mental well-being and its impact on individuals and communities wherein they come together to create a collaborative and comprehensive approach to address mental health challenges. (JDP/MAWC-PIA-CAR)