According to data from the Department of Health (DOH) as of 2020, around 3.6 million Filipinos are experiencing mental health issues due to the pandemic.
Psychologist Dr. Bernadette Arcena said the COVID-19 pandemic has had a big effect on the mental health of people, especially those whose loved ones have died.
“As long as namatay kakilala mo, mag-undergo ka ng disbelief. Andoon ‘yung unacceptance. Maraming mga pangyayari. In denial ka rin. May anger ka rin. Tapos, later on, sabihin mo siguro talagang panahon na niya,” she said in an interview with PTV aired on Sunday, Sept. 5.
“So, mayroon kang bargaining na sana hindi na mangyari sa mga kaibigan ko. So, in that way, you’re able to go to the state of acceptance, but it takes time,” she added.
Arcena said it’s important for every family member to show support for relatives experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression.
“A family loved one died, so dapat ang grief work will be done with the members of the family. Kayo rin mismo ang magpapalakas sa inyong mga sarili. Mag-family bonding kayo with your kids, with your family. Make situations in the family very enjoyable,” she said. – Report from Cleizl Pardilla/PG – bny
