InTouch together with Boxless Society Organizes an Art Exhibit to Raise Awareness of Mental Health

May 23, 2019, Manila, Philippines - “Mental Tapestries” a unique art exhibition aimed at raising awareness of mental health, hosted by InTouch Community Services, in partnership with Boxless Society, will feature 27 works of art focused on the theme of mental health, created by artists who face mental health challenges. The artworks will showcase how the artists have used their experiences and creativity to manage their condition.

“At InTouch we hope that all people will value mental health and emotional well-being and be able to access high quality mental health services. For this to happen, there needs to be less stigma and more meaningful deliberations around mental health at the community level,” says Camilla Brooks, Chairperson of InTouch. “This partnership with Boxless Society is an opportunity for us to view mental health through the medium of art to generate better understanding and awareness,” she added.

“Art can be therapeutic and can help one speak louder than words, because thoughts are often hard to verbalize. This art exhibit is intended to raise awareness on mental wellbeing, to feel free to express and spread acceptance,” says Lucylle Bianca T. Cawaling, Event Organizer and Volunteer at Boxless Society, channeling the sentiments of her team of artists. 

The exhibit will run from May 23 until July 11, 2019, and the art will be offered for sale, with the proceeds going to support both organisations, the artists, and their cause.

Mental Health in the Philippines

Mental Illness is a major public health concern in the Philippines, with many sufferers reluctant to seek counselling or medical treatment due to stigma. The Philippines Department of Health reports that one in 5 Filipino adults may be afflicted with some form of mental illness. Last year, the country passed the Mental Health Act, aimed at providing affordable and accessible mental health services for its citizens. 

About In Touch Community Services

In Touch Community Services is a leading provider of Mental Health Services and has been helping people in the Philippines since 1980. It is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to promoting mental health and offering care and treatment to persons suffering from mental and emotional distress, specializing in cross-cultural delivery of these services, and Employee Wellness Programs. InTouch offers a variety of services such as: Face-to-Face Counselling, Crisis Line, Training and Workshops and Crisis Response. 

Get In Touch: In Touch Community Services, 48 McKinley Road, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1219 ​(2nd fl of Holy Trinity Church Offices), P: +63 2893 1893 / +63 917 863 1136
E: intouch@in-touch.org, W: https://www.in-touch.org/

Crisis Line: +63 2 893 7603   ||   +63 917 800 1123 (Globe)   ||   +63 922 893 8944 (Sun)

About Boxless Society

Boxless Society is a support group for artists who are diagnosed with mental health conditions and their caregivers. Several artists’ work will be featured in the Mental Tapestries exhibit with an aim to promote better understanding about mental health through the medium of art. For more information, please visit us on Facebook or contact at: boxless.society@gmail.com

Bad mood or depression? Here’s what you need to know

Do you often feel sluggish and tired? Do you always feel hopeless that it takes control over your life and you lose interest in activities you used to enjoy? You might dismiss those episodes as mood swings, but in fact, you might be depressed. Depression is a serious medical illness that negatively affects the way you think, feel, or act, and should be addressed immediately.

“Depression is more than just a bad mood and can happen to anyone. It’s important for people to be educated on the symptoms as well as the ways of overcoming depression so they can seek help for themselves or their loved ones who might also be going through it,” said MediCard president Dr. Nicky Montoya.

How can you tell if you’re suffering from depression? Here are some warning signs:

Fatigue and loss of interest. Feeling lethargic all the time is a common sign of depression. Depression also hinders you from doing and enjoying the things you used to do like hobbies, going outdoors or even hanging out with friends.  

Irregular sleep. Depression and sleep are closely linked to each other. A change in your sleeping habits – the inability to sleep (insomnia) or oversleeping – could be a sign that you are depressed.

Appetite or weight changes. Another warning sign of depression is a significant change in your appetite or weight. A distinctive factor to find out if the weight changes are related to depression is whether it is intentional or not. If the change is unintentional, it’s possible that depression is the cause.

Suicidal thoughts. Depression is often connected to suicide, according to studies. If you are thinking of harming or killing yourself, it is a strong indication that you are depressed.

As Dr. Montoya said, depression is preventable and treatable. Here are some ways to overcome depression.

Stay connected. Reaching out to people is an essential part of your recovery. Isolation fuels depression, which is why it’s a big help to stay connected to your family or peers even if you always want to be alone. Attending social activities, even if you don’t feel like it in the moment, may also prove helpful.

Exercise. Working out is another good way to combat depression. While exercising, your body releases feel-good brain chemicals that may boost your mood. Start with a routine you can follow every day, such as continuous and rhythmic exercises like walking, swimming and dancing.

Seek professional help. If you already made changes to your life to overcome depression, but it seems like your situation hasn’t changed, it’s time to see your doctor for a thorough check-up.

Depression should not be taken lightly. If you are experiencing these warning signs, it’s best to get professional help. MediCard has 14 free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer consultations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out www.medicardphils.com for more information.