PH Senate Pushes for School-Based Mental Health Program to Prioritize Students’ Well-being

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Manila, Philippines – Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has urged the Senate to prioritize a bill that aims to establish a school-based mental health program in both public and private basic education institutions nationwide. As the head of the Senate basic education panel, Gatchalian presented the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act during a recent session.

The proposed legislation aims to provide students with not only academic education but also mental and emotional support. If passed into law, the bill will require the Department of Education (DepEd) to collaborate with learners, parents, and parent-substitutes to develop a comprehensive mental health program for schools.

The bill outlines various measures to be implemented under the school-based mental health program. Essential mental health services will be made available within schools to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health counseling. The DepEd will also conduct mental health awareness programs and provide appropriate referrals to teaching and non-teaching personnel. One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a care center in every public basic education school, while private schools will be encouraged to set up similar facilities. These care centers will be equipped with adequate physical resources, maintain confidentiality, and be accessible to students, teachers, and staff.

The proposed care centers will have several functions, including the development and implementation of localized multi-year mental health programs. They will also provide mental health literacy programs for school personnel and establish connections with parents, local governments, and other stakeholders to enhance students’ school behaviors and academic performance. Furthermore, the care centers will ensure efficient referrals for mental health interventions and provide aftercare support through collaboration with appropriate agencies, institutions, organizations, or professionals. They will equip students with skills and knowledge for prevention, identification, and appropriate response and referral for mental health needs. The bill also emphasizes the importance of stigma reduction through education and training for all stakeholders in the school community.

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In addition to the establishment of care centers, the proposed legislation aims to address the shortage of guidance counselors in basic education institutions. It mandates schools and the DepEd to hire and train competent personnel who will be responsible for promoting and ensuring the mental health and well-being of all students. This provision aims to ensure that students have access to the necessary mental health services and support they need.

Gatchalian stressed the urgency of passing this law, emphasizing that ignoring the mental health of students has detrimental effects on their progress and overall well-being, as well as society as a whole. The need for such legislation is highlighted by the alarming statistics presented by the DepEd. During the Academic Year 2021-2022, when schools were mostly closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 404 students in the country tragically took their own lives, while 2,147 attempted suicide. Over 775,000 young learners sought the assistance of guidance counselors, with approximately 8,000 concerns related to bullying.

The proposed Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act seeks to prioritize the mental health of students and provide them with the necessary support and resources within the school setting. By recognizing schools as a place for academic and mental growth, the legislation aims to ensure that learners receive a holistic education that nurtures their well-being.

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