INTRODUCTION In the Philippines, great strides are being taken towards mental health. Taking the lead is the Mental Health Act, signed into law in 2018. Also known as Republic Act 11036, the Mental Health Act mandates that every Filipino is guaranteed their right to mental health. This means that the 3.6 million Filipinos living with mental health disabilities in 2021, a number estimated by the Department of Health, can expect more humane treatment. Under the Mental Health Act, persons needing mental health services, their immediate family, and the professionals who treat them are entitled to particular rights. Aside from legislative support, a shift in perspective is also fueling mental health enlightenment in the country. Generally, Filipinos today react with compassion and kindness, rather than ignorance and cruelty, to people living with mental health disabilities. This is encouraged by awareness campaigns set up by public and private agencies and organizations. The Commission on Human Rights, specifically, is a proud and fierce advocate of Filipinos’ mental health rights. Mental health, after all, is a basic human right. Through this handy resource book, the Commission hopes to further educate individuals on the state of mental health services in the Philippines; and the ways each individual can support these. There is a long way to go in terms of prioritizing mental health for all. But because it’s finally okay not to be okay, it becomes easier to live with less fear and more sensitivity, respect, and love. 6