By NewsDesk  @bactiman63

The assistant director of the Department of Health in Region 9 (DOH-9) in Zamboanga City warns that the COVID-19 pandemic is causing a mental health crisis in the Philippines.

Dr. Joshua Brillantes said Wednesday that losses in jobs and livelihood have affected mental health, leading to widespread psychological trauma, fear, depression, and even suicides.

“This is important especially at this time there is Covid-19 where there are a lot of Filipinos who lost their jobs. These financial problems will lead to psychological stress and mental health problems,” Brillantes said.

He emphasized the need for affected individuals to be open with their problems and seek guidance from experts to help them cope with and face the problem.

Lastly, Brillantes said that the COVID-19 crisis may increase suicide rates during and after the pandemic, underscoring the importance of traditional and social media campaigns to promote mental health and reduce distress.

Lastly, the Department of Health (DOH)  reported 1,910 new confirmed cases Wednesday, bringing the total cases to 346,536 and active cases to 46,627.

The DOH also reported 78 deaths logged from June to October 14, which brings the total death toll to 6,449.