Liza Soberano talked about her mental health challenges in an interview with American Actress and Podcast host Rachel Bilson on Feb. 5, 2024.
On the "Broad Ideas with Rachel Bilson & Olivia Allen" podcast, Liza mentioned that many Filipinos avoid discussing mental health because it's considered a taboo topic. She shared that pretending to be tough in handling problems is commonly accepted.
“Unlike here in the States, we’re very behind just in terms of really understanding mental health and mental health issues. In the Philippines, we don’t really like to talk about mental health that much. It’s a taboo topic,” she said.
Liza believed that the Philippines being colonized for a long time led to "utang na loob" (debt of gratitude) and resilience becoming a natural part of the local culture.
“You’re forever in debt, so just be grateful for whatever it is you have. Filipinos like to say we’re so resilient in facing challenges but it’s actually like we’re just people-pleasers,” she said.
She further discussed about her ongoing challenges, like rebuilding her confidence during interviews, where her words are often scrutinized by the public.
“I get very self-conscious and so when I started becoming more vocal about mental health, my goal or my promise to myself was just to always be authentic and honest,” said Liza.
Rachel asked Liza about her journey in having her own podcast "An Open Mind with Liza Soberano," which started when she faced mental health challenges before the pandemic.
Liza shared that she aims to make mental health services available in the Philippines, helping those in need by making it affordable or free. “I got a lot of messages from my fans that it helped them to think that seeking professional help is not bad. It’s not embarrassing.”