Stressed during GCQ? Robes wants ‘mental health desks’ activated in barangays

In a bid to address the worsening mental health situation in the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic, San Jose Del Monte City Rep. Florida Robes is pushing for the activation of mental health desks in barangays under Republic Act 11036 or the Mental Health Act.

The congresswoman also called on the public to give time and donation to cause-oriented groups that deal with mental health issues such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline ‘1-800-273-TALK (8255)’.

Robes, a mental health advocate, said aside from protocols put in place to stop the spread of Covid-19 in communities and manage those who may have the disease, local government units should put in place mental help desks in every barangay to address those suffering from anxiety or depression as a result of the pandemic.

“The establishment of mental health desks in the community level is provided for under Section 16 of RA 11036,” she noted.

“The issue on mental health should also be given importance given the mental health risks we are all facing in these times of uncertainties both in terms of getting infected and our economic conditions,” Robes said.

The World Health Organization has raised the alarm over mental health risks as more and more people all over the world are experiencing depression due to the impact of Covid-19 which include social isolation, fear of contagion, compounded by loss of income and employment.

It is for this reason, Robes said, that open and constant communication with family members and friends are important.

“It is important that people know they have someone they can talk to whenever they feel down or anxious. We need human interaction especially in these times but the physical distancing is posing a challenge,” she said.

“That is why this should be a community effort in order to still have that connection in these trying times,” Robes said.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)