SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go called for increased psychological assistance and mental health support for Filipinos especially the youth and those in grassroots communities.

The senator made the call following a study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute that 7.5 percent of Filipino youth attempted suicide in 2021.

“Umpisa pa lang ng krisis, talagang maraming apektado. Marami pong na-depress to the point na gusto na mag-suicide. We have to address this issue,” Go said.

The UP study also revealed that between 2013 and 2021, “suicide ideation” among the Filipino youth more than doubled.

Suicide ideation is a term used by the World Health Organization to describe thoughts, wishes, preoccupations and contemplations with death and suicide.

Former president Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act 11036 or the Philippine Mental Health Act which establishes a national mental health policy.

It aims to provide mental health services at the barangay level, and integrate mental health and wellness programs at the grassroots level so that interventions will be felt by the communities.

It also seeks to improve mental health facilities and promote mental health education in schools and workplaces.

Go also asked health authorities to make sure that the government’s programs for mental health are given enough attention and funding in the coming years.