According to a study entitled “Mental Health in the Philippines: By the numbers”

conducted by Magtubo (2016) – the Philippines consists of 10 million Filipinos. And among the
10 million – only 1700 of them are professionals of mental health care. The study showed that
17-20% of Filipino adults experience psychiatric orders, while 10-15% of Filipino children suffer
from mental health problems. In the same study, 88 cases of mental health problems were
reported for every 100,000 Filipinos. With this many people suffering from mental health
problems, mental health care then should be prioritized in our country. But, mental health care
facilities - both public and private – are barely sufficient and inadequate. Majority of these
facilities are only within the National Capital Region, making it inaccessible for those residing in
distant places. Also, study reports that there has been a very low number of professionals
specializing in the mental health care field, which reflects how little mental health is perceived in
our country.

In connection to our interview with Dr. Clara Abas, her answer regarding the current
status of clinical psychology lacking prioritization and people - is supported by the study
previously discussed. She mentions how the ratio of Clinical psychologists in rehabs today are
mostly at 1:20. Some patients aren’t given enough attention because they lack professionals
who could give them adequate care. The fact is, the number of mental health professionals in
our country, is just grossly insufficient.

After learning about these current trends that clinical psychology faces – I am now more
determined to pursue this field. These studies and testimonies just show how much people need
help, and if I am blessed with the capability and opportunity to study this field – then why not
use it to do more – to change people’s lives and make a difference.

Source:
Magtubo, C.A. (2016). “Mental Health in the Philippines: By the numbers”. Retrieved from
http://today.mims.com/mental-health-in-the-philippines--by-the-numbers