1.Evaluating community mental health and substance use treatment integration in the Philippines: Policy and practice implications
Christopher Villongco ; Maria Regina Hechanova ; Patrick Angeles ; Shanise Geri DR. Villanueva ; Mikhaela Francesca Marietta A. Malonzo ; Ivanhoe Escartin
Philippine Journal of Health Research and Development 2023;27(4):11-21
Background:
In recent years, both mental health (MH) and substance use (SU) have emerged as important issues among Filipinos. Not all clients need specialized services and can be treated in non-specialized settings. However, no previous study has examined integration of MH and SU in the Philippines.
Objectives:
This qualitative study explored the current practices, gaps, and potential for integration of MH and SU treatment in communities.
Methodology:
In-depth interviews were conducted among eight subject matter experts from five Department of Health (DOH) Centers for Health Development and three local government units. Data was analyzed using Framework analysis and the SAMHSA-HRSA Framework.
Results:
Findings suggest very low levels of integration of mental health and substance use services given
inadequate resources and divergent policies and governance structures. However, findings show the
potential for integration of community-based drug rehabilitation (CBDR) and community-based mental
health (CBMH) especially for low and moderate risk clients.
Conclusion: CBDR programs appear to be a promising model for care and lay the groundwork for
implementation of CBMH. However, policy changes are needed to decriminalize drug use and implement an integrated flow for MH and SU. In addition, incorporating screening and early interventions in primary care are key to decreasing mental health inequity in the Philippines.
Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry)
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Philippines
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