The House of Representatives has finally passed a proposed bill that seeks to establish a national mental health system for the benefit of every Filipino.
The Lower House approved House Bill 6452, otherwise known as the “Mental Health Act” with a unanimous vote of 223-0 after resuming session this week.
Under the bill, the Department of Health will be tasked to create a national program that will standardize mental health services in all hospitals. There will also be lesson modules that will be integrated into educational programs to promote mental health awareness among the youth.
The bill also seeks to protect the rights of those suffering from various mental illnesses. Some examples of mental disorders include depression, anxiety, autism, and various forms of addiction such as alcohol and drug abuse.
The Senate for its part already passed its own version of the bill last May. One of its authors, Senator Risa Hontiveros, congratulated the Lower House for the milestone move
Meanwhile, netizens expressed delight with the passage of the Mental Health Act which is seen as a basic need in the country.
hooray for ph’s mental health bill <3333
— alel (@gloomylungs) November 20, 2017
We're almost there
Congrats Ph, may mental health bill na tayo! ????????????????????
— Buboy (@redichoso) November 20, 2017
???????? the first time in a long time that i'm proud of you ph. we have a mental health bill now ????????
— LA???? (@nekolors) November 20, 2017
Just being grateful
With 223 affirmative votes and no objections, the Comprehensive Mental Health Act (HB 6452) passes its third and final reading! #MoveForMH
— silakbo.ph (@SilakboPH) November 20, 2017
Stop the stigma
I am beyond overwhelmed knowing that finally we have our own mental health bill in PH #StopTheStigma
— Trix ???? (@Trengyxz) November 20, 2017
Save a life
Finally, PH has Mental Health Bill ?? Let’s support and spread awareness about mental health!! I, We can save a life ?? #MoveForMH
— laila ???? (@Alaylahtastic) November 20, 2017
Here's a great suggestion
Q2: What provisions do you want to add to the bill to make it more comprehensive? #UsapTayo #MentalHealthPH #MoveForMH pic.twitter.com/IdNHyXsuUq
— MentalHealthPH (@mentalhealth_ph) November 20, 2017
At the end of the day, nothing's perfect but we can definitely work together to build a better nation.
So much tweets! Thank you so much everyone for participating! The mental Health bill is a stepping stone towards a better mental health for everyone but it is not perfect. #UsapTayo #MentalhealthPh #MoveForMH
— MentalHealthPH (@mentalhealth_ph) November 20, 2017
This story originally appeared on Fhm.com.ph.
* Minor edits have been made by the Femalenetwork.com editors.
