DOH regional director Cesar Cassion. PIA-3 file photo
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The Department of Health Central Luzon Center for Health Development has established 24/7 hotlines that seek to help people in distress during this coronavirus disease pandemic.
The numbers are 0939-329-9749 for Smart and 0926-518-9290 or 0956-019-7965 for Globe.
“The fear of uncertainty amid this Covid-19 pandemic can be overwhelming, affecting the general well-being of the community, particularly the people’s psychosocial and mental health,” DOH regional director Cesar Cassion said.
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include fear and worry about one’s health and that of one’s families, changes in sleep or eating patterns, difficulty in sleeping or concentrating, worsening of chronic health problems and mental health conditions, and increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.
Aside from the hotline, DOH-CLCHD also has a Facebook page- DOH Central Luzon Mental Health Program wherein everyone can visit and schedule for an online counselling.
“We partnered with different societies and individuals including guidance counsellors, clinical psychologists, and family counselors who are willing to render pro bono services during this crisis. Different brain-break tips to help cope up with stress are also being posted on the page,” Cassion added.
Online refresher courses are also made available to provide assistance to healthcare workers who previously had training on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, Mental Health Gap Action Program and other relevant trainings completed under the DOH-CLCHD.
Healthcare workers who wish to have these courses may coordinate with DOH-CLCHD for scheduling.
“United as one, we assist anyone to manage their situation and make informed decisions. Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress and eventually make our community stronger,” Cassion emphasized. — Carlo Lorenzo J. Datu/PIA-3
