The Department of Health yesterday launched a mental health crisis hotline yesterday aimed at helping curb the problem.
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) crisis hotline will operate 24/7 to provide counseling for those at risk of committing suicide and other people suffering from mental health conditions.
The new NCMH crisis hotline can be reached at 0917-899 8727 or 989-8727.
Duque said everyone is enjoined to support the dissemination of the hotline numbers.
Many lives that can be saved with the use of the hotline. DOH Secretary noted.
Mental illness is a major public health concern in the country, with many patients reluctant to seek medical treatment due to stigma, without the proper necessary intervention, many of those who are suffering from mental conditions take their own lives. Duque said.
Studies indicated that suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 29 to 59 years old worldwide.