The efforts of the Ilocos Norte government have been recognized by the Department of Health (DOH) for being the best implementer of mental health programs in the Ilocos region.
The province is set to receive an award on December 12 at the DOH Regional Office 1 in San Fernando City, La Union, according to Divine Sevilla, a counseling professional of the “Speak Up, I’m Here” program.
Through the program, hundreds of Ilocanos, specifically the youth, are being heard in dealing with psychological-related cases which affect their daily lives.
In 2020, the mental health program was launched in view of the alarming rate of suicide-related cases reported in the province, increasing by 31% compared to the same period last year.
To date, the mental health awareness program has expanded to schools and various local government units to address mental health issues, encourage positive psychological practices, and try to prevent suicide.
A mental health center was also built at the Gov. Roque B. Ablan Sr. Memorial Hospital, providing psychological consultations to in-patients, especially those who tested positive for Covid-19.
A helpline to make mental health support services more accessible and available was also launched, in partnership with certified counseling professionals across the province.
Meanwhile, DOH reported at least a million Filipinos are facing mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic, including depression, substance use disorders, and mood disorders.
Government-mandated lockdowns to prevent the spread of the virus – and associated social isolation – have also aggravated existing mental health challenges.
