The DEPARTMENT of Education has launched a mental health helpline system to support learners, teachers, and the public in times of mental and psychological distress.

“We prioritize the promotion and protection of the mental health and general welfare of our personnel and learners, especially amid the challenges we face due to the crisis,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

All DepEd offices were instructed to include and promote the national and regional helplines of Circle of Hope Community Services, Inc., Covid19 Mental Health Responders from the Masters Psychological Services, Hopeline PH, and The 700 Club Asia in events and programs.

The helplines can be contacted through:

• Circle of Hope Community Services, Inc. : (+63) 917 882 2324, (+63) 908 891 5850, (+63) 925 557 0888
• COVID-19 Mental Health Responders from the Masters Psychological Services: https://www.facebook.com/theMastersPsych/photos/a.1783242525300758/2353920514899620/?type3&theater
• Hopeline PH: (02) 8804 46 73, (+63) 917 558 4673, (+63) 918 873 4673, Globe/TM toll-fee 2919
• The 700 Club Asia: (+63) 949 889 8138, (+63) 943 706 7633, (+63) 0943 145 4815, (+63) 917 836 1513, 02 8737 0700, 1-800-1-1888-8700

“These helplines can provide various ways to support our learners and personnel. They may provide mental health and psychosocial support services, as well as wellness checks,” Ronilda Co, the agency’s disaster risk reduction management service director, said.

All helpline numbers will be updated in March and October of every year.