Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa has created an online support group for her advocacy of raising mental health awareness.
Verzosa, who herself battled clinical depression in 2014, said the “Mental Health Matters” Facebook page, which she created with her sister and “a few good people,” aimed to share information on mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder and to provide emotional support to those who suffer mental illness.
“I created this page to help people like me, who at one point in their lives have experienced depression, anxiety disorder, and other forms of mental illness,” Verzosa wrote on the page’s description.
“I believe many people my age (even younger and older) go through this. I want to let you know that you are not alone. Depression is a disease that is treatable and manageable. It is good to seek help, and learn more about what you are going through and the different forms of mental illness,” she said.
The beauty queen, who was crowned Miss International in December last year, urged the public to share their stories on the page, which she said will be monitored as often as possible.
“I am not a professional but I know how you feel because I have been there. I encourage emotional support. I hope the helpful articles, video clips and stories I post here can enlighten you. Remember, suicide must NOT be an option. Help me save lives. Let us support one another. We are not alone and we can get better and live our dreams just like I do,” Verzosa added. YG/RAM
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