The number of monthly hotline calls on depression has jumped from 80 to 400 ever since the lockdowns started, the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) has recorded.

This grim fact was shared by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in observance of National Mental Health Week and called for the fortification of mental health amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The theme this year is called "Mental Health for All. Greater Investment—Greater Access."

CHR Spokesperson Atty. Jacqueline de Guia said that the state of mental health in the country has already been deteriorating even before the COVID-19 outbreak. With the major disruptions caused by the pandemic, de Guia said there is a heightened urgency to address the issue of mental health.

Medical workers are overwhelmed as they struggle to provide healthcare while they are fearful of getting infected themselves. Thousands of Filipinos have lost their jobs and no longer have the means to provide for their families.

People who have lost loved ones because of COVID-19 never had the chance to say a proper goodbye, while the youth are grappling with long-distance learning and are unable to have normal social interaction in their crucial development years.

Meanwhile, those with mental health conditions are even more vulnerable due to quarantine restrictions.

"As we observe the counterpart National Mental Health Week here in the Philippines, let us join together in calling for greater investment in mental health so everyone can have access to psychosocial support and services regardless of location and socio-economic situation," said de Guia.

"The consequences of the pandemic on the mental health of the citizens, particularly the vulnerable sectors, necessitate that mental health become an integral part of the universal health coverage," she added.

The CHR has lauded the government's efforts in addressing the issue of mental health even prior to the pandemic. They implemented programs and interventions for workplaces, schools, and communities targeting high-risk groups.

"We hope that the implementation of the Republic Act No. 11036 or the Mental Health Act will ensure that mental health and wellness programs will reach the grassroots level so that remote communities will not be left behind," said de Guia. "The tireless mental health professionals also deserve commendation for providing interventions, comfort, and care to those experiencing depression and despair."