October 25, 2024 – In a recent gathering of mothers, advocates, health professionals, and employers, Beacon, the Philippines’ first mental health and well-being platform for parents, launched its advocacy campaign, Moms Speak Up. This maternal mental health initiative aims to address the often-overlooked mental health challenges that Filipino mothers face, shedding light on the urgent need for both awareness and action.
Voice of Mothers
Based on findings from a survey conducted by Beacon among nearly 200 mothers, 75% have experienced stress or burnout, 65% have struggled with anxiety, and 35% have suffered from depression.
Working mothers also called for changes in the workplace, citing a preference for flexible work and output-based performance. These insights underscore the need to challenge gender stereotypes, build strong social support, and create workplace policies that support mothers.
Photo Credit: Beacon
When Mothers Gather
Senator Risa Hontiveros, champion of the Mental Health Law and Expanded Maternity Leave Law, highlighted the need for collective efforts from the government, civil society, and the private sector to address the emerging mental health crisis. “Let’s show each other that help is always available and that life is always worth living,” said Sen. Hontiveros in her keynote address.
The highlight of the event was an inspiring mom panel discussion hosted by wellness advocate and journalist Stephanie Zubiri. The panel featured award-winning journalist and UN Women National Goodwill Ambassador for the Philippines Karen Davila, activist and former Miss World Philippines Katarina Rodriguez, and content creator and media executive producer Cham Magsaysay. They shared personal stories of overcoming societal expectations and mental health struggles.
Guests were also treated to a hands-on Art as Therapy session, led by Beacon expert and certified expressive arts facilitator Ross Tiu, providing moms with a space to express their emotions and connect with one another.
Photo Credit: Beacon
Online Campaign
Mothers are invited to take part in the social media campaign with the hashtag #MomsSpeakUp. This online initiative encourages moms to share their mental health journeys.
“There is power in speaking our truth,” said Kate Delos Reyes, founder and CEO of Beacon. “We hope to spark conversations that will reduce stigma and lead to positive changes in society.”
Expert-Led Mom Support Group
As part of the campaign, Beacon also introduced The Lighthouse Club, a new expert-led support group for mothers, where members will benefit from:
- Monthly coaching calls with mental health experts
- Weekly self-care activities
- Self-paced courses on maternal mental health and well-being
- Access to an exclusive community of moms and experts for peer support
- Exclusive discounts on consultations and wellness services
Photo Credit: Beacon
The Lighthouse Club welcomes all mothers with a 90-day free trial at www.beacon.ph.
“We believe that no mother should feel alone. Through The Lighthouse Club, we are offering mothers the tools and support they need to prioritize their mental well-being so that they can truly be the light of their homes and communities,” said Delos Reyes.
A Call to Action for Mothers
Beacon’s Moms Speak Up campaign is a call to action, urging mothers to prioritize their mental well-being and encouraging families, employers, healthcare providers, and policymakers to create an environment where mothers feel supported and empowered.
This campaign is supported by Soulful Feasts Podcast, KMC, theAsianParent, Lily of the Valley, Mamafit, Cafeño Manila, Nature to Nurture, Zima, Babywearing Philippines, Laser Crafts PH, Charmed PH, Petals of Love, and Strip It.
For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit www.beacon.ph or follow Beacon on social media @bewithbeacon.
