The collaborative efforts between the Naga City People’s Council (NCPC) and the Department of Health Region 5, showcased during the Mental Health Psycho-Social Services Orientation on February 5, 2024, represent a commendable stride towards mental health advocacy and support. The virtual event, featuring Ms. Windalyn Baluis, RN, an esteemed focal person for the Mental Health Program at the Department of Health Region 5, aimed to foster mental health awareness and support. Attendees included members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga, representatives from the DOH, and various sectors of the NCPC.

Ms. Baluis, in her keynote address, delved into the intricacies of the Bicol Mental Health Program, emphasizing the pivotal role of integrating mental health programs to cater to the diverse needs of the public. With passion, she said, “Wherever we are, our mental health must be valued or given emphasis.”

The orientation also highlighted the Mental Health Gap Action Program, emphasizing the necessity of decentralizing mental health services to make support more accessible to communities. Local Government Unit (LGU) health facilities were emphasized as well-equipped to provide mental health services. Ms. Baluis also drew attention to the “Usap Tayo Hotline,” established in 2020 during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, as an additional resource for those in need.

Transitioning to the second part of the orientation, Ms. Baluis explored the Mental Health Psycho-Social Support (MHPSS) framework, focusing on the profound impact of disasters on mental health. She elaborated on the six phases of disaster and the emotional responses associated with each, shedding light on the three types of victims—Direct, Indirect, and Hidden. This comprehensive coverage provided a holistic understanding of the mental health challenges in disaster-stricken areas.

In their collaborative efforts, the Department of Health Region 5, through Ms. Baluis, is assisting the Naga City People’s Council (NCPC) in preparing a comprehensive approach to address mental health challenges for Naga City’s populations. The focus is on at-risk youth, including those out of school, persons with disabilities, teenagers dealing with pregnancy, young parents, and individuals influenced by drugs. The objective is to create a supportive environment where individuals, especially those at risk, feel encouraged to seek help without facing stigma.