NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Words Matter PAP Pushes Back On Labeling Youth Mental Health As Weakness
Photo credit: PAP and Robin Padilla / FB
The Psychological Association of the Philippines (PAP) is speaking out, reminding the public that youth mental health is not a sign of weakness but a serious public health concern that deserves compassion and science-based understanding.
The statement came after recent remarks by Senator Robin Padilla, who reportedly described today’s young people as weak. PAP warned that such framing is not only misleading but harmful, especially to children and adolescents already navigating real mental health challenges.
“Equating mental illness with weakness of character is scientifically wrong and socially dangerous,” the group stressed.
Citing both local and international data, PAP pointed out that mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are diagnosable health disorders shaped by biological, psychological, and social factors—not laziness or moral failure. According to studies referenced by the group, about one in eight adolescents and one in 17 children in the Philippines live with a diagnosable mental disorder. The World Health Organization has also identified depression and anxiety as leading contributors to disability in the country.
PAP emphasized that higher reporting of mental health concerns does not mean today’s youth are weaker. Instead, it reflects growing awareness and improved mental health literacy. More openness, they said, leads to earlier intervention and better outcomes—not fragility.
“Strength is not the denial of psychological suffering,” the group noted. “Strength is recognizing distress, seeking support, and building systems of care grounded in evidence.”
The organization also called for responsible, evidence-based public communication from leaders and policymakers, saying stigma discourages help-seeking and undermines prevention and treatment efforts.
PAP encouraged individuals experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, sleep changes, or thoughts of self-harm to seek professional help. Reaching out, they underscored, is not weakness—it is an act of self-care and responsibility.
The group reaffirmed its willingness to work with government institutions to advance mental health initiatives grounded in data, dignity, and science.
The statement came after recent remarks by Senator Robin Padilla, who reportedly described today’s young people as weak. PAP warned that such framing is not only misleading but harmful, especially to children and adolescents already navigating real mental health challenges.
“Equating mental illness with weakness of character is scientifically wrong and socially dangerous,” the group stressed.
Citing both local and international data, PAP pointed out that mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are diagnosable health disorders shaped by biological, psychological, and social factors—not laziness or moral failure. According to studies referenced by the group, about one in eight adolescents and one in 17 children in the Philippines live with a diagnosable mental disorder. The World Health Organization has also identified depression and anxiety as leading contributors to disability in the country.
PAP emphasized that higher reporting of mental health concerns does not mean today’s youth are weaker. Instead, it reflects growing awareness and improved mental health literacy. More openness, they said, leads to earlier intervention and better outcomes—not fragility.
“Strength is not the denial of psychological suffering,” the group noted. “Strength is recognizing distress, seeking support, and building systems of care grounded in evidence.”
The organization also called for responsible, evidence-based public communication from leaders and policymakers, saying stigma discourages help-seeking and undermines prevention and treatment efforts.
PAP encouraged individuals experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, sleep changes, or thoughts of self-harm to seek professional help. Reaching out, they underscored, is not weakness—it is an act of self-care and responsibility.
The group reaffirmed its willingness to work with government institutions to advance mental health initiatives grounded in data, dignity, and science.
Feb 13, 2026
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