PLDT, Smart, and the Makati Medical Center Foundation are working together to build more mentally resilient communities and creating a safe space to support the country’s Health Heroes in the frontline service through the Better Today Conversations on Mental Health Awareness. 

The session took a deep dive into mental health by discussing how the pandemic has affected the mental well-being of frontline health and military workers. Dr. Geraldine Mayor led the session. She is the President of Neurogenesis LCC, a Diplomate in Psychiatry, and part of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. 

Some of the topics discussed by Dr. Mayor included the symptoms of depression and anxiety and how to cope and seek help; learning one’s boundaries as a way of maintaining a positive mental well-being; breaking the stigma when it comes to mental illness; and finding comfort and therapy through animals, among many others. 

Catch the replay of the episode via the official Facebook Page of Joy Ortega: https://bit.ly/324LMYo.

“Together with our Kapatids from PLDT and Smart, we shed some light on the many mental issues that arise during this time of the pandemic and this time of the year, when society dictates that we shall be merry, happy, and bright. While this may not always be the case, rest assured that our foundation and with the support of our private sector partners, we will always remain steadfast because we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health,” said Makati Medical Center Foundation President Dr. Victor L. Gisbert.  

“We are grateful to partner with like-minded individuals and organizations to champion mental health awareness within communities. Through our collaborative program Better Today, we provide a safe space for everyone as we continue to raise awareness and break barriers and stigma when it comes to mental health,” said Smart Assistant Vice President and Head for Government Relations Jose Lukban Rosete. 

Better Today is part of PLDT and Smart’s continuing commitment to help the Philippines in contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly UNSDG #3 that stands for good health and well-being.