A GROWING mental health problem looms in Baguio City.

Gina Camsol of the Philippine Mental Health Association Cordillera Chapter Inc. [PMHA CCI] confirmed a surge in depression cases in the past three years.

“At PMHA, we observed there is an increase in number of clients being referred for treatment due to depression as compared three years ago,” Camsol said.

PMHA studies show there is indeed an increase in the number of cases not only in Baguio City but worldwide as the WHO estimated that 800,000 people die due to suicide every year or 1 individual die of suicide for every 40 seconds.

“In our locality, it is sad to note that the actual data as to the number of suicide cases is very poor because not all cases are reported,” Camsol added.

There were 112 suicides reported in the city since 2018 according to studies made by mental health advocate and outstanding citizen awardee Raquel Versoza.

Camsol said the government can respond by providing or strengthening the mental health services in the school, work place, and community.

“I think prevention and early intervention is still the best way to combat the issue on the increase of suicide cases. If people are aware, they know how to take care of their mental health, they will know when to seek help and where to seek help,” Camsol added.

Camsol advised a proactive defense against depression.

“Each of us can still do something to prevent it,” she added and recommended to everyone to take care of their own mental health and look for positive ways on how to cope with their day to day struggle.