MANILA – The Quezon City government has integrated its mental health services including psychosocial support and crisis intervention in the city’s Helpline 122 available 24/7.
“May mga pagkakataon na hindi na natin kinakaya ang mga suliranin at isipin na kinakaharap natin sa buhay kaya minsan, kailangan natin ng makakausap. Ang ating responders na maabot sa pamamagitan ng Hotline 122 ay handang makinig at umalalay sa inyo, hanggang sa gumaan at maging mabuti ang inyong pakiramdam (There are times when we can’t handle the problems we are facing and sometimes, we need someone to talk to. Our responders who can be reached through Hotline 122 are ready to listen and support you, until you feel better),” QC Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a news release on Thursday in celebration of the World Mental Health Day.
Residents of QC who have issues or concerns with their mental health seek help from the local government by simply dialing “122”, and they will be immediately referred to a crisis responder who would assist them, she said.
She added three sets of teams are on duty every day to ensure that callers are provided with immediate interventions in times of crisis.
Belmonte said the city’s crisis responders were trained by the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) on suicide and crisis management.
They were also trained in mental health, psychosocial support and psychological first aid.
Also, there are about 370 barangay officials and staff who underwent psychological first-aid training, enabling them to assist residents in processing and overcoming traumatic experiences.
Belmonte said QC is the first city to establish its own Mental Health Code, through City Ordinance 3158-2022 which institutionalized the Quezon City Comprehensive Mental Health Programs and Services.
Mental Wellness Access Hubs are also established in communities to assess, diagnose, and disburse free prescription medication.
Every October, the country observes National Mental Health Month to raise awareness and mental wellness, and correct misconceptions about mental health and illness. (PNA)