“This COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a threat to our overall health-- both physical & mental. While much has been said and done about our physical health, little has been provided for our mental health.”
Senator Risa Hontiveros warned of increasing conditions of stress and anxiety as the community quarantine continues in the country. The Office of Senator Hontiveros on Saturday called for volunteer psychologists and counselors to conduct teletherapy services for those experiencing distress brought by this crisis, as well as for those with existing mental health conditions. In partnership with Mind Nation, the free teletherapy services has officially started today, April 20. Hontiveros also expressed concern on domestic abuse cases in the Philippines. As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Gender Equality, and Family Relations, Hontiveros cited global reports on the rising incidence of domestic abuse in countries that have implemented similar quarantine measures.
“Because of the proximity in the home and added stress due to economic hardship brought by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), Filipino women and children who are living with their abusers become more vulnerable to violence,” Hontiveros said as the lockdown is extended until April 30. "This is extremely worrying,” she added. To address this, Hontiveros partnered with Lunas Collective to offer support and psychosocial counseling to domestic abuse survivors and their families. She also called on volunteer lawyers and psychologists.
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