CARMONA CITY, Cavite – The local government unit launched a program expanding access to mental health services at the City of Carmona Plaza on Thursday, Aug. 14.

With the theme “Isang Komunidad para sa mas Malusog na Kaisipan” (A Community for a Healthier Mind), the launch was led by Mayor Dahlia A. Loyola, local officials, health advocates, and community representatives.

During her speech streamed live on Facebook, Loyola stressed the need for the city government to prioritize its mental health program, noting the growing number of residents who require support.

She highlighted that awareness is increasing, but emphasized the importance of gaining more partners to strengthen the city’s mental health initiatives.

“Noong araw, kapag kami’y natapos ng internship at nakapasa sa board, bihira ang kumukuha ng post-graduate residency sa psychiatry. Dahil kakaunti ang gustong lumabas na gustong magpatingin sa psychiatrist (In the past, when we finished our internship and passed the board, it was rare for anyone to take post-graduate residency in psychiatry because very few people wanted to see a psychiatrist),” Loyola, a doctor by profession, said.

“Pero ngayon, napakahirap kumuha ng appointment, sa dami ng tao na nagko-consult (But now, it’s very hard to get an appointment because so many people are consulting)… There is no shame in seeking help for your mental health.”

At present, the city government operates the Carmona Mental Health Clinic, where patients can receive a free psychiatric assessment and schedule free consultations with the community-based psychiatrist.

Psychiatric medication is also provided at no cost, along with free referrals to other specialists for further treatment and management.

The clinic likewise offers free mental health and psychosocial support services, including psychological first aid.

Plans to expand the program include delivering mental health services to schools, hiring additional guidance counselors, and constructing a dedicated building for the mental health program.

The mayor said the initiative is a multi-sectoral approach, involving schools and ensuring that each barangay has designated hotlines or contact points for mental health concerns.

Community-based psychiatrist Dr. Joeffrey L. Cruzada emphasized that mental health care should not wait until cases escalate, but should also focus on preventive measures, such as wellness programs and mindfulness activities.

Leonard Danniel M. Diaz of the Community Affairs and Youth Development Office, meanwhile, discussed the LGU’s Project Delivering Resilience, Empowerment, Awareness, and Mental Support or Project DREAMS, which aims to raise awareness and provide support to individuals in need.

The gathering featured a pledge of commitment, where participants vowed to prioritize mental health as a right, not a privilege, and committed to creating safe spaces, promoting equity, and making mental health services relevant and accessible.