9. Mental health professionals are protected by the law. RA 11036 dictates that workers in the mental health industry enjoy a safe and supportive work environment. If they want to, they can take part in continuous professional development programs. And if their patient’s wishes are not aligned with those of their family or legal representative, a mental health professional has the right to fight for their patient’s rights. (Section 7) • All hospitals in the country are required to provide psychiatric, psychosocial, and neurologic services if a patient needs them. • If there’s a need for such, hospitals must coordinate with drug rehabilitation centers to continue a patient’s treatment plan. • All people needing mental health services must be given treatment without discrimination. 10. Each person needing mental health services, regardless of age and disability, are considered by the government to have legal capacity. This means they have to give written consent to any prescribed mental health treatment before it’s implemented. Children must be consulted regarding their opinion about their treatment. (Section 8) • Everyone needing mental health treatment is entitled to affordable, high-quality services. • Family members, carers, legal representatives, and mental health workers have special rights, too. • Before their treatment is implemented, people living with mental health conditions, regardless of age, must either give written consent or at least be consulted. • All public and private schools and workplaces are required to promote mental health whether through their curricula or programs and policies. 11. Mental health promotion and education must be provided in schools and the workplace. From kindergarten to senior year in college, students’ curricula should include mental health. Public and private employers are also required to integrate mental health promotion in their workplace policies. They must also promptly correct any discriminatory practices against people living with mental health conditions. (Chapter 5) There is much more to look forward to about the Mental Health Act. It is a law that’s long been anticipated. Now that it’s finally being implemented, Filipinos, regardless of status and state of health, must educate themselves about what they’re entitled to by law. It’s time for them to claim their birthright. Sources: The Mental Health Act. The LawPhil Project. https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2018/ ra_11036_2018.html Quick read: • The Mental Health Act aims to nationalize integrated mental health services. • It’s the Philippine government’s mandate to guarantee and enforce every Filipino’s basic human right to mental health. • Mental health services must be based on science and medical research. 59 60