As global awareness of mental health grows, studies expose a troubling decline in the mental well-being of Filipino youth, casting a dark shadow over their developmental momentum and biological maturity
A September 2024 article in The Lancet – Psychiatry authored by a team of 54 psychiatrists reports a continuous decline in the mental health of youths since the beginning of the new millennium.
This global observation mirrors the situation in the Philippines: results from the 2021 Young Adult Fertility Survey by the University of the Philippines Population Institute released in October 2022 reveal a sharp rise in suicidal ideation among youth. In 2021, about 1.5 million young Filipinos contemplated ending their lives, a dramatic increase from over 574,000 in 2013.
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The National Institute of Health defines suicide ideation as a term used to describe thoughts, wishes, preoccupations, and contemplations with death and suicide.
What drives this crisis? Five megatrends are at play: intergenerational inequality among families, the rise of smartphones and unregulated social media use, rampant wage theft, unstable employment conditions, and climate change. This intersection of social, economic, and environmental challenges creates a perfect storm, deeply impacting the mental health of Filipino youth and challenging their ability to cope.
Addressing this crisis requires changing how we view and discuss mental health. In the Philippines, stigma often prevents open conversations and discourages young people from seeking help. There is also a misguided notion that mental wellness is a choice and that individuals can simply “will themselves to get better.” This is why it’s crucial for families to recognize mental health issues and actively support their loved ones.
To effectively support mental well-being, families need to create a nurturing environment where open discussions about mental health are encouraged. Educating themselves about mental health conditions and their associated challenges is also vital for fostering better understanding and empathy.
Furthermore, families should also model positive coping strategies by demonstrating healthy ways to manage stress. Incorporating practices such as meditation, exercise, and mindful reflection into daily routines helps. Engaging in hobbies like painting, playing an instrument, or writing provides valuable outlets for stress relief and emotional expression.
Deepening support and knowledge of mental health not only helps their loved ones but also creates a ripple of compassion that extends beyond their own homes.
Therefore, it’s important for every family to reflect on these questions: Am I actively empowering the young people in my life? What bold steps am I taking to create a more compassionate and supportive world for them?