The launch of the WiSUPPORT or the Wireless Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Individuals and Families Affected by COVID-19 and other Crisis Situations by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is a commendable step in addressing the growing mental health concerns in this time of pandemic.

The program aims to target the most vulnerable sectors, which include overseas Filipinos in distress, children in need of special protection, senior citizens, women in especially difficult circumstances, persons with disability (PWDs), family heads and other needy adults, and other individuals and families in distress. CHR recognizes and supports this effort of the DSWD to ensure coverage and accessibility of psychosocial support for vulnerable sectors and individuals. The consequences of the pandemic on the mental health of the citizens, particularly the aforementioned sectors, necessitate proactive and targeted mental health services such as WiSUPPORT.

Considering the lengthy lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19, the anxiety due to health concerns and prolonged economic insecurity have taken a huge toll on the mental health of many citizens. We hope that the program will pave the way for wider mental health coverage for all regardless of location and socio-economic situation.

CHR also notes the collaborative effort that will be employed through the WiSUPPORT, which shall include the Department of Health (DOH) and National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) to ensure appropriate care and services to those experiencing mental distress. The Mental Health AWhereness PH mapping integrated in the WiSUPPORT platforms is also an innovative idea that will help clients and service providers locate nearby agencies providing mental health services.

While the program is only at its pilot stage in National Capital Region, Central Visayas, and CARAGA Region, we look forward to its nationwide implementation to be able to meet the urgent need for psychosocial services across the country. Beyond the pandemic, sustainability of this program remain crucial to maintain regular mental health services during the period of recovery and to normalize it as a staple health service.

Mental health is an integral part of an individual’s overall health and well-being. Investing in psychosocial care shall yield great returns in promoting better social well-being, which also contributes to better productivity and economic performance. Aside from efforts to mainstream mental health services, we also continue to call on all sectors of society to work together in removing stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health.

The DSWD WiSUPPORT service may be accessed through the following paltforms:

Email: wisupport@dswd.gov.ph
Website: ekwentomo.dswd.gov.ph
Google Play Store application: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cudavasol.wisupport