Muntinlupa offers psychiatric help
THE Muntinlupa City government offered free psychosocial support and mental health services via online and limited face-to-face consultations for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) patients and frontliners.
The Muntinlupa Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) provides psychological first aid and psychiatric check- up, including psychotherapy, through the Mental Health and Wellness “Alay Malasakit” program for residents experiencing anxiety and stress.
Residents who are experiencing fatigue, depression, fear of Covid-19, difficulty in sleeping brought about by stressful situations, or having suicidal thoughts were told to send the MHPSS a message and avail of their free online mental health consultation.
Psychosocial first aids and online counselling are administered via the MHPSS Facebook page.
The team is composed of a psychiatrist, registered psychometrician, nurses, social workers, a special education teacher, village health workers and other personnel from the city government.
As of August 5, the team had provided free mental health service and referrals to 900 clients. The project is facilitated by the City Health Office, Social Service Department, Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office, Schools Division Office-Muntinlupa, Office of Senior Citizens Affairs and Muntinlupa City Technical Institute.
Mayor Jaime Fresnedi said the city government recognized the need to support the people’s mental health as fear and anxiety grow from various factors, including the virus’ threat to public health, the implementation of strict quarantine and a wave of social media misinformation, among others.
“We are taking a holistic approach in the Covid-19 health emergency by also providing psychological support for our constituents. We made it accessible online so Muntinlupeños can consult with our medical personnel in the comfort of their homes during the quarantine period,” he added.
As of August 5, the city had 1,800 confirmed virus cases with 955 recoveries and 78 deaths.