The Philippine mental health crisis is severe and growing, with recent studies indicating that around 20% of Filipinos aged 15-24 have contemplated suicide. The alarming trends in depressive symptoms and suicidal experiences have been coinciding with isolation, as most young people did not reach out to anyone about their suicidal ideations. This isolation has been worsened by high treatment costs, stigmatization of mental illness, and a lack of services outside Metro Manila. Studies have also shown that young Filipinos who have considered suicide are much more likely to seek help from their peers instead of family members or counselors. These findings emphasize the urgent need for community-based mental health interventions, and as a result, PCMH intends to reach children and adolescents through local youth-led platforms.
At PCMH, we take pride in being a youth-led organization that positions young Filipinos at the forefront of mental health advocacy. It's vital that our students are well-informed and comfortable discussing mental health, enabling them to lead outreach efforts through their unique insights and personal experiences. To see the work of our members, please follow us on Facebook or browse through our resources!
In the Philippines, the immense pressures faced by children—from enduring long school hours and fulfilling family obligations to economic hardships—often lead to significant stress. Despite their resilience, many reach a breaking point due to the high expectations placed upon them. Additionally, the country lacks sufficient resources to address the mental health needs of its millions of affected individuals. PCMH was created to address these critical gaps in mental health support, and it honors the legacy of a special Filipino psychiatrist whose life ended before she could extend her impactful work to her home.
At PCMH, we understand the challenges that Filipino children and their families face due to daily stresses and the persistent stigma associated with mental illness. We aim to empower adolescents to learn and grow from their experiences through peer support groups and community involvement. Ultimately, we aspire to create a Philippines free from harsh judgment towards the mentally ill, where all children can openly seek help and guidance to manage their struggles.
Increase understanding and reduce stigma associated with mental health in the Philippines. Offer mental health education for local parents and families to better understand and support their children’s experiences.
Organize service projects to address social determinants of mental health and ensure more equitable access to mental health care.
Create student-led support groups within schools to ensure widespread peer support across the Philippines. Encourage holistic self-help strategies to emphasize the interconnection between physical and mental health.
Study the main determinants of mental illness and mental health disparities in more disadvantaged areas of the Philippines. This improves our collaborations with local entities to provide evidence-based mental health care in local communities.
Collaborate with local government and healthcare entities to design and implement community-based mental health interventions that are cost-effective and sensitive to the needs of the youth.
Our future goal is to provide scholarships for disadvantaged but academically driven students.