What Does It Cost to Be Mentally Ill in the Philippines?

We recognize more and more that mental health is a pressing issue and is as real and legitimate as other health issues. We know more and more now that even if we can’t see it, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. We push every day to shed light on mental illnesses and to rid it of the stigma it has, especially among older generations.

But like other sicknesses, it may cost to keep them at bay or to be cured of them. Like other sicknesses, they require doctors and medicine, people and tools well-equipped to aid in recovery. And these things cost money. So we at WIM wondered: What does it cost to be mentally ill in the Philippines?

We gathered up the main costs that come with being mentally ill and here are our numbers!

Doctors/counselors/therapists

The first cost is usually a doctor/counselor/therapist to get us started. Usually, they’re the ones who point us in the direction of our illness at all. They help us comb through our feelings and symptoms so they can name what has been hurting us. Once that has a name, it becomes easier to treat it. With their expertise, we can finally diagnose what has gone unnamed for so long.

Take note, however, that not all of these professionals can dispense medicine. Psychiatrists and officials who are permitted to are the ones who can. Regular counselors might not be able to prescribe anything, although many have said that psychotherapy alone has been able to help them immensely even without medicine. It all depends on you, what you’re comfortable with, and your budget.

NOTE: Prices were gathered at the time the article was written

Cost:
1. Free services 

• UST Psychotrauma clinic (02) 406 1611 loc 4012, Thomas Aquinas Research Complex building, UST, Espana Blvd., Sampaloc, Manila
• Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, Sumulong Highway, Sto Niño, Marikina City
• Philippine General Hospital – (02) 554-8400 loc. 2436 or 2440, (02) 554-88470, (02) 526-0150, and (02) 554-8469, PGH Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Department 2/F, Ward 7
• Ateneo Center for Family Ministries (CEFAM) – (632) 426-4289 to 92, Spiritual Pastoral Center, Seminary Drive, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City
• Emmaus Center for Psycho-Spiritual Formation – (02) 928 6040, (02) 426 6001 loc. 4875, 3/F Spiritual-Pastoral Center (CEFAM), Seminary Drive, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City

2. More affordable options

• Philippine Mental Health Association – (02) 921 4958 to 59, No. 18 East Avenue, Quezon City 1100, Philippines – PHP 1000 for initial visit, PHP 700 for succeeding (they also give discounts)
• National Center for Mental Health – (02) 531 9001, Nueve de Febrero St., Mauway, Mandaluyong City, PHP 400
• University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC), (02) 715-0861 loc 337, 64 Aurora Blvd, Quezon City, 1113 Metro Manila, PHP 100
• FEU Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (NRMF) – (02) 983 8338, Regalado Ave, West Fairview, Quezon City, 1118 Metro Manila, PHP 150 for initial visit, PHP 120 for succeeding

3. Private doctors – Most private doctors have an average rate of PHP 1500 up to even PHP 4500 but some are open to discounts–you can consult this sheet for some doctors and their rates 

Medication

Medication might be the most tedious in terms of buying and can range from PHP 40 (Rivotril is one of these things, an anti-anxiety medication) a tablet to PHP 300 (Abilify, another common pill, is a mood stabilizer that is a little pricier than most) a tablet–even more! Medication isn’t always necessary for those with mental health issues–sometimes the consultations are enough. But for those of us who need to balance ourselves with the help of medication, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. If you can get a PWD card, medication is 20% off–it helps a lot! You just need to go to your city hall and ask about how you can apply for one.

Here’s a helpful post that shows places that provide free medication, as well.

Maintenance and support

As for maintenance, one has to consistently go to sessions/take medication/seek support from family and loved ones. The greatest part of this is that love and support from those who treasure you will always be free. It’s a great feeling knowing that you’re supported and loved no matter what your condition.

Words of affirmation or any other love language can come free as long as you’re open about your troubles and hurts. People will definitely want to be there for you and make you feel better. This comes free. <3

Are you looking to get help? Let us know!