Influencers, advocates lend support to DOH’s RISE UP NCR mental health program

by: Jumalynne Doctolero

QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — Mental health advocates and influencers Inka Magnaye and Riyan Portuguez have expressed their support for the newly launched RISE UP program by the Department of Health-Metro Manila Center for Health Development (DOH-MMCHD).

The program, titled “Reaching Individuals for Self-Empowerment through Unified Partnership,” is a joint initiative of national and local government agencies to address the growing need for accessible mental health support, especially among young Filipinos.

Magnaye, a popular content creator and voice over talent, spoke of the program’s personal significance, saying, “As someone who is diagnosed with a few conditions myself, and is currently going through therapy, I intimately know how crucial mental health support is, and seeing this initiative by the Department of Health is giving me hope that mental health support can become accessible to those who need it.”

On the other hand, Portuguez, known online as “Your Millenial Psychologist,” echoed Magnaye’s sentiments, stating, “For the mind and heart to find comfort, it is important that each agency is united. And to have proper services and support for all, because an individual cannot do this alone. That is why I am truly grateful for Project RISE UP.”

The RISE UP program was born out of the government’s recognition of the pressing need for an effective, integrated approach to addressing the rising prevalence of mental health disorders, particularly among the youth.

Launch of the RISE UP NCR mental health program led by DOH-MMCHD Regional Director Rio L. Magpantay, together with representatives from relevant agencies such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Social Welfare and Development, National Center for Mental Health, Commission on Human Rights, PhilHealth, and city health officers from Metro Manila local governments. (Photo by Jumalynne Doctolero/PIA-NCR)

Data presented by the DOH-MMCHD shows that over 50 percent of the calls to the National Center for Mental Health Hotline are from individuals aged 18 to 30, and a 2015 World Health Organization survey found that one in five students have attempted suicide.

To kickstart the program, the DOH-MMCHD organized a workshop for stakeholders and partners to develop a regional mental health program framework. (JVD/PIA-NCR)