The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is calling on employers in the Philippines to expand their mental health support systems.
The Secretary of Labor and Employment, Silvestre Bello III, underscored the importance of extending paid leave benefits and flexible work arrangements to employees. He also highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive workplace environment.
The DOLE’s call comes amid growing concerns about the mental health of Filipino workers. A recent study by the World Health Organization found that the Philippines has one of the highest rates of depression in the world.
The DOLE is urging employers to take the following steps to support employee mental health:
- Extend paid leave benefits to employees who need to take time off for mental health reasons.
- Offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting options, to employees who need them.
- Create a supportive workplace environment where employees feel comfortable talking about their mental health.
- Provide employees with access to mental health resources, such as counseling services.
Employees who are struggling with their mental health are advised to take advantage of the healthcare services offered by their employers. They can also seek help from mental health professionals outside of work.
