1.Breaking barriers and claiming space: Career insights and advice from Filipino women leaders in health
Reneepearl Kim Sales ; Lynnell Alexie Ong ; Pura Angela Wee Co ; Katherine Ann Reyes ; Martha dela Paz ; Lindsay Orsolino
Philippine Journal of Health Research and Development 2023;27(4):33-36
This virtual forum showcased successful women leaders in the Philippine health sector who shared their journeys and advice with early-career professionals. The speakers emphasized the significance of mentorship, claiming space, and taking risks. They also highlighted the need for support systems to encourage non-traditional career paths in the health sector for women. The discussion acknowledged the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community in accessing appropriate healthcare and the importance of generating evidence and dialogue to address their unique health needs. Across these contexts, common themes emerged in the importance of mentorship for women leaders in overcoming societal biases and stereotypes.
Gender Equity
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Mentors
2.Mental health and substance use services in schools and workplaces
Maria Regina M. Hechanova ; Patrick Angeles ; Camille Yusay ; Ana Maria Isabel C. Guevara ; Felice Caringal-Go ; Lindsay Orsolino
Philippine Journal of Health Research and Development 2024;28(2):7-12
Background:
In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that about 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from mental health
(MH) or substance use (SU) conditions [1]. However, there is a dearth of literature on the delivery of MH and SU services in Philippine
schools and workplaces.
Objectives:
This study aimed to describe the prevalence of MH and SU services in Philippine schools and workplaces. It also
examined the level of institutional support, barriers, and stigma and discrimination for MH and SU.
Methodology:
Data was gathered in October 2022 using an online survey. The survey generated 262 respondents from all regions of
the country. Schools represented 55% of respondents whereas 45% were from government and private workplaces.
Results:
Schools and workplaces report providing more services for MH compared to SU. They also have more budget for mental
health compared to substance use. The most commonly provided services are prevention programs on stress with a greater percentage
of schools providing this compared to workplaces. Majority of schools and workplaces do not have any screening or treatment
programs for MH and SU. Barriers to service delivery include the lack of budget, personnel, and knowledge of what services to
provide. Results showed moderate levels of stigma and discrimination, with attitudes towards substance users being more negative
compared to those with MH issues.
Conclusion
Despite national policies requiring MH and SU services in schools and workplaces, gaps in service delivery and
institutional support hinder implementation. To improve service delivery, there is a need to strengthen resources, policy, leadership
support and address stigma and discrimination.
Mental Health
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Surveys and Questionnaires