On World Mental Health Day, Mindanao Climate Justice (MCJ) sheds light on the fragile state of mental health services in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao. With only 135 psychologists and less than 550 psychiatrists nationwide, the healthcare system struggles to meet the needs of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs). The traditional medical model, reliant on one-on-one support, cannot address the growing mental health crisis in Mindanao, where just 41 psychiatrists serve over 26 million people.

MCJ’s Panalipod Program emphasizes collective care, recognizing that stress, anxiety, and depression disproportionately affect defenders of Indigenous lands and environmental rights. Addressing this shortage of mental health professionals requires innovative, community-based approaches.

By shifting focus to holistic care, MCJ calls for urgent reforms to expand access to mental health resources and create work environments that nurture the emotional well-being of those who champion social and environmental justice. This World Mental Health Day, MCJ commits to advocating for workplaces where HRDs can flourish, mentally and physically, supported by systems that prioritize mental health as a cornerstone of sustainable work environments.