The Mental Health Program has experienced significant growth and development within the Department of Health. This progress is evident nationwide, including in Ormoc City.

One contributing factor is the increasing demand for mental health services due to various factors such as epidemics, natural disasters, challenges in family and personal relationships, mental health issues among youth, frustrations, unresolved issues, and trauma. Addressing these mental health challenges is crucial to prevent them from progressing into more serious mental disorders or illnesses. Failing to address these issues could have profound effects on families, communities, and the economy, contributing to the overall burden of disease.

This proactive approach to mental health underscores the importance of supporting and expanding mental health services to ensure the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

Ongoing

        Ormoc City's Mental Health Program provides essential services tailored to meet Level 1 and Level 2 needs of its clients. Level 1 services address mental health issues across all age groups, such as anxiety, mental distress, and PTSD without psychotic symptoms. Level 2 services encompass consultation and medication (Community-Based Treatment) for clients with diagnosed mental illnesses, along with referrals to Level 3 services when necessary. 

        Due to increasing number of mental health cases as well as due to the influence of social media, the City Health Department is actively doing Mental Health awareness in different schools, universities and workplaces.

Last February 21, 2024, a big fire left several Ormoc City residents homeless. The City Health Department conducted Psychosocial First Aid to the fire victims of Brgy Cogon, Ormoc City.

Last November 16, 2024, a big fire left several Ormoc City residents homeless. The City Health Department in partnership with the DOH VIII conducted Psychosocial Processing to the fire victims of Brgy Linao, Ormoc City.

         In line with the Department of Health’s Health Promotion Strategy framework, the City Government of Ormoc through the SP on Health, Dr Edmund Keirulf is crafting Policies regarding the implementation of the Mental Health Program in the city.