"Help is finally here!" -Role of Tertiary Institute in the Promotion of Philippine Mental Health Law (RA 11063)

Authors

  • Jayson Amber T. Ong
  • Jimnah Naomi T. Ciron
  • Celinniel S.J. De Guzman
  • Jonathan P. Diokno

Keywords:

mental health law, RA11036, tertiary institutes

Abstract

All human beings, regardless of background, age, gender, status and educational qualifications are vulnerable to mental health concerns. Stigmas of the society hinder the prevention and cure of such concerns. To support the mental health well-being and to correct negative stigma, the Philippines enacted RA 11036, otherwise known as the Philippine Mental Health Law. Using exploratory qualitative method of research, this study mapped the perceived (a) source of mental health concerns, (b) hindrances in the promotion mental health well-being and (c) activities to promote RA11036 in tertiary institutes. Participants of this study are teachers and administrators. Maximum variation sampling was used to saturate the collected data of the study. Using thematic analysis, it was revealed that there were six perceived sources of mental issues in the institutes and these are: Self-acceptance, culture, financial status, technology, environment and organizational crisis. It was also found out that there are three hindrances in promoting the law –unawareness, anxiousness and inactivity. However, there were six perceived activities and solutions to support mental health law –peer counselling, trainings, social activities, religious activities, sharing of experiences and conduct of research. Proper budget allocation is needed to implement the mapped activities and a solution is needed. 

Published

2018-09-18