The Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC) has recently intensified its efforts to promote mental health awareness to support the well-being of its workforce. Dubbed as Living with Balance: Managing Stress and prioritizing Mental Health, the session aims to address mental health challenges in the workplace, promote emotional resilience, and foster a healthier environment.

Almost 150 employees were able to attend the discussion led by Dr. Mary May M. Fernando, a registered psychologist and psychometrician. With 24 years of experience in the industry. Dr. Fernando started her discussion with a simple yet pertinent question: Kamusta ka?

As Dr. Fernando mentioned, depression has no face, hence, this simple question made the attendees think about their state of well-being.

Dr. Fernando also discussed the different symptoms of mental illness such as sleep pattern changes, fatigue, digestion changes, headaches and the like. She said that these symptoms, though common, may lead to a more serious mental health issue.

Having a healthy mind is indeed key to overall health and well-being. Dr. Fernando pointed out that seeking treatment for mental illness should be like seeking treatment to a common cold or fever.

As an active member of the American and Philippine Psychological Association, Dr. Fernando set out the #EndTheStigma campaign as many opt to ignore their mental health for reasons such as the cost of the treatment or not knowing where to go for services, concern about confidentiality, opinions of neighbors, co-workers and their community.

ECC Executive Director Atty. Kaima Via B. Velasquez, in her closing remarks, stated, “Do not feel alone and do not feel that we will not support you. We have the Administrative Division; our partners and programs being developed to fight mental illness in the workplace. If you need assistance, do not fear, get help.”

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M. De Guzman-Chu – C.O.