7 Signs a Loved One Is Struggling with Mental Health
In the Philippines, many people still hesitate to talk openly about personal struggles. Mental health is often a taboo topic—addressed in private or dismissed as “drama” or “kaartehan” (over acting). This lingering stigma makes people hesitant to seek help and just choose to quietly fight their own battles.
Psychologist Tin from Care Center Clinic says that mental health is as vital as physical health because the two are closely linked. “Mind and body thrive together – care for one, and you strengthen the other,” she explains.
Understanding Mental Health in the Philippines
For generations, many Filipinos have preferred to keep emotional struggles private, often suppressing their thoughts and feelings, rather than speaking about them. This tendency is rooted in cultural values such as “hiya” (shame), “pakikisama” (maintaining harmony), and the desire to appear strong for the sake of the family.
Opening up about sadness, stress, fear, or anxiety is sometimes seen as “kahinaan ng loob” (a sign of weakness). As a result, many choose to endure in silence rather than risk being judged, discriminated against, or misunderstood.
However, with the growing awareness and advocacy, this mindset is gradually changing. More Filipinos are beginning to recognize that mental health is a significant part of overall well-being.
Younger generations, particularly Gen Zs, are becoming more vocal about their struggles. They normalize mental health discussions by sharing personal stories and posting about it on social media, reducing generational stigma. They prioritize mental wellness, create a culture of transparency, seek support, and advocate for systemic changes. For instance, schools now recognize the importance of “mental health breaks”. Before, students were expected to deal with exhaustion or burnout while keeping up with their school responsibilities. Today, many educational institutions allow mental health days, an indication of heightened awareness that mental well-being is just as important as academic performance.
Many Filipinos have a tendency to hide their emotions behind smiles, humor, or by being busy. Because of the common mindset of “tiis lang” (just endure it) and “kaya ko ’to” (I can handle this), emotional distress can easily go unnoticed.
Psychologist Tin points out, “Many Filipinos have learned to hide their struggles behind a smile. Let’s be mindful of small changes in their behavior, feelings, or routines – they often say what words can’t.”
Here are some signs that your loved one might be struggling with mental health:
1. Withdrawal from family and friends – A normally cheerful and outgoing person may suddenly prefer to be alone, spending most of his/her time in the room, skipping family meals, ignoring text messages, and declining calls. While some may dismiss this as a temporary phase, it could actually signal deeper emotional struggles.
Coping tip: Gently reach out without pressuring them to open up. Invite them to join family activities, even in small ways like watching TV together or making their favorite “merienda” (snack). Let your presence be a quiet indication that you’re there when they’re ready to talk.
2. Unexplained mood swings – A loved one who becomes unusually irritable, short-tempered, or sensitive might be dealing with emotional distress . Constant mood swings can sometimes mask mental struggles.
Coping tip: Avoid arguing and don’t take mood swings personally. Instead, create a calm environment and offer reassurance. Sometimes, simply listening without judgment can make them feel supported.
3. Changes in sleep or appetite – Significant shifts in sleeping or eating habits – such as sleeping far more or less than usual, or losing interest in food or eating excessively, can indicate underlying anxiety. If such changes persist, they deserve attention.
Coping tip: Encourage regular, grounding routines for sleep and meals. Going on a short evening walk, limiting screen time before bed, or sharing “lutong bahay” meals (home-cooked food) can help bring balance.
4. Loss of interest in hobbies or tasks – A student who used to love participating in extracurricular activities may suddenly lose enthusiasm, skip multiple practices, or stop communicating with group members. Similarly, an adult may neglect household duties or work tasks. While it’s normal to feel unmotivated once in a while, a persistent lack of interest could be a sign of mental distress.
Coping tip: Avoid forcing them to go back to their old routine right away. Instead, let them know it’s okay to take things slow. Inviting them to join simple, low-effort activities like going on a short walk, watching a favorite show together, or going on a coffee date can gently spark their motivation again.
5. Decline in performance at school or work – Difficulty focusing, frequent tardiness/absences, or a noticeable drop in grades or work performance can be signs that the individual is experiencing mental or emotional exhaustion.
Coping tip: Help them manage tasks by setting small goals and taking breaks. Remind them that rest is essential, not a sign of weakness or failure.
6. Unexplained physical symptoms – Persistent headaches, body pains, or fatigue that don’t seem to have a medical explanation can sometimes be linked to stress, anxiety, or depression.
Coping tip: Encourage healthy routines such as engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated. Encourage them to get a physical and mental health checkup at a reputable primary care clinic Philippines to help identify underlying causes and provide proper support.
7. Negative self-talk or hopeless expressions – Statements like “Wala naman akong silbi” (I’m useless) or “Pagod na ako” (I’m tired) can reflect inner struggles that need compassion and support.
Coping tip: Listen with empathy and avoid dismissing their feelings with phrases like “Wala yan, lilipas din yan” (That’s nothing; it will pass). Instead, say, “Andito lang ako at handang makinig” (I’m here for you and ready to listen). Let them know that if negative thoughts persist, it is advisable to seek help.
Bottomline
Recognizing these early signs allows families and friends to reach out to their loved ones with understanding rather than judgment. According to Psychologist Tin, “Filipinos are naturally caring and close-knit. When we pay attention to the small signs and check in with kindness, we make it easier for our loved ones to open up.” She adds, “Sometimes, simply asking how someone feels can give them the courage to open up—and that small act can be the first step towards healing.”
If you or your loved one is struggling with mental health, Care Center Clinic provides psychological and psychiatric consultations designed to support mental and emotional well-being. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of strength and self-care.