Aiming to confront the stigma surrounding mental health in the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) conducted the first National Brain and Mental Health Symposium on 11 April 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City. 

Themed “Paglilinaw sa Alingawngaw: Breaking Stigmas in Mental Health through Research and Development,” the symposium brought together 150 researchers, policymakers, advocates, and mental health professionals who participated in a series of discussions that present innovative strategies and best practices in mental health research. Highlighted projects included studies on autism spectrum disorder, mental health among Overseas Filipina Workers, and telepsychiatry.

Angat Buhay Chairperson and former Philippine Vice President, Atty. Leni Robredo delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the need to face mental health-related issues in the country. “We saw the need for mental health support alongside what are usually considered tangible and physical concerns. But once we were face-to-face with these struggles, the urgency lent flight to our heels,” she remarked.

Drawing from Angat Buhay’s frontline experiences, Atty. Robredo revealed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, particularly among vulnerable populations, citing anecdotes from Angat Buhay’s teleconsultation program called Bayanihan E-Konsulta, which emerged as a lifeline for over 1,200 individuals grappling with mental health crises during the pandemic in 2020.

“Through the commitment of our volunteers, we were able to continue these services when we brought Bayanihan E-Konsulta to the nonprofit sector. However, we acknowledge the difficulties of responding to the growing demand for free and accessible assistance in this area, especially because mental health concerns, hindi pareho ng ibang concerns, require longer and more focused interventions,” she added.

DOST Undersecretary Leah Buendia acknowledged the crucial role of research in addressing mental health challenges. Usec. Buendia noted, “We recognize that there is still much work to be done, particularly in breaking the stigma in mental health. Over the years, concerted efforts from government and private institutions aimed to address the mental healthcare problems and needs of the Filipino people.”

“With our National Mental Health Research Agenda in place, I believe that community-based experiences and interventions provide valuable opportunities to strengthen our understanding and resolve—whether it’s in building an improved mental health system, strengthening leadership and governance, or designing mental health services that are accessible, affordable, and holistic,” Atty. Robredo emphasized, rallying participants to remain steadfast in their commitment to the cause.

One of the event’s key highlights was the official launch of DOST-PCHRD’s fourth mental health book entitled, “Spirituality in Mental Health Research and Practice.” The book explores the interplay between mental health and spirituality, offering valuable insights into holistic approaches to mental well-being.

Reflecting on the event, PCHRD Executive Director Jaime Montoya emphasized the importance of research in fostering inclusive support systems for individuals facing mental health challenges. “Health research has a role in cultivating inclusive support systems for individuals facing mental health challenges. At PCHRD, we are committed to initiating research initiatives that address the multifaceted aspects of mental health, paving the way for a more compassionate and resilient society,” Dr. Montoya stated.

The symposium, which is part of the activities under the Brain and Mental Health R&D program of PCHRD, was live-streamed on the DOST-PCHRD Facebook page ensuring broader access to valuable discussions on mental health.