Mental Health Issues among Selected Junior High School in a Selected Sectarian School
Sr. Maria Asela B. Chavez1,
FMA, Arlyne C. Marasigan, Ph.D.2
Mary Help of Christians College1,
Philippine Normal University-Manila2
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/iimrj312
ABSTRACT
Suicide was the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds globally in 2016 (WHO, 2019). There is an alarming increase in the number of young people experiencing depression which often leads to suicide. The State affirms the basic right of all Filipinos to mental health as well as the fundamental rights of people who require mental health services (R.A. 11036 or Mental Health Act Section No.2, 2019). This study determines the mental health issues of selected junior high school students through the use of the six-item Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale, interviews about its causes and possible solutions as well as determines its direct implication to transformative educational leadership policy. The six-item Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale was utilized in this study. Based on the findings of the study, half of the 177 respondents hardly ever had thoughts, plans, or actions about suicide or self-harm. However, some students are having these thoughts and they need to be helped. After the survey, a random interview revealed that family problems may lead to depression. The respondents identified the need for quality personal relationships fostered through heart-to-heart talk, quality time, friendship, acceptance, respect, understanding, and non-judgmental attitude from the entire educating community. They also mentioned the need for a comprehensive school mental health program (cf. R.A 11036), provide professional help and close follow-up as well as lessening the academic pressures. To conclude, the youth of today who seem to be independent and have many “online friends” in social media still long for quality relationships especially in their families. As a recommendation, the educating community especially parents must have quality time and heart-toheart talk with their children (the students) despite their hectic schedule. There is also a need for a comprehensive school mental health program (R.A 11036) to promote transformative educational leadership.
Keywords: depression, anxiety, mental health, transformational leadership