Philippines Passes Breakthrough Law on Mental Health

“Help is here.”

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed the Mental Health Law, or Republic Act 11036, which will provide affordable and accessible mental health services to all Filipinos, according to Rappler.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, who is the principal author and sponsor of the bill, broke the news on her official Facebook account.

The Department of Health has reported that one in 5 Filipino adults has some form of mental illness, topped by schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Through this landmark law, they will be able to get the assistance they need.

The senator wrote, “The law will secure the rights and welfare of persons with mental health needs, mental health professionals, provide mental health services down to the barangays, integrate psychiatric, psychosocial, and neurologic services in regional, provincial, and tertiary hospitals, improve our mental healthcare facilities and promote mental health education in our schools and workplaces.

Every day, 7 Filipinos turn to suicide. One in 5 Filipino adults also suffer from a form of mental disorder. RA 11036 cements the government’s commitment to a more holistic approach to healthcare: that there is no health without mental health.” the senator wrote.

What other parents are reading

How to Deal With Toddler Tantrums in Public (You've Got This, Mom!)

How to Calm Your Child Who Cries When He Goes to School: 5 Expert Tips

A Mom's Budget-Friendly Baon Ideas When She's Too Tired to Cook or Think

What Do Scarlet Snow, Mori and Other Celeb Toddlers Love to Read?