PH Embassy, Psy-Med Conduct Seminar on Depression in Laos

Clinical psychologist Dr. Manivone Thikeo enumerates the various types of depression, such as bipolar disorder and post-partum depression. (Vientianne PE photo)

VIENTIANE 01 October 2018 — As part of efforts to promote support for those who suffer from mental illness, the Philippine Embassy in Vientiane organized a seminar on mental health on 19 September 2018 that was attended by 55 members of the Filipino Community in Laos.

Dr. Manivone Thikeo, Clinical Psychologist at the Psy-Med Treatment Center for General Medicine, Psychology, Psychiatry and Neurology in Vientiane, conducted the seminar with special focus on depression.

In her lecture, Dr. Manivone discussed the signs and symptoms of depression, the different forms of the illness, as well as the impact of depression on patients and their environment.

She imparted on the attendees the different ways they can provide support to those with depression or exhibiting signs of depression, such as being patient, to not dismiss the person’s feelings, and to take action if someone expresses their intention to commit suicide.

Dr. Manivone explained that depression is hardly discussed in Laos and still carries a stigma, which is a reason why there is a shortage of mental health centers in Laos. She added that most of the people in Laos are Buddhists and still go to the temple for cleansings or exorcisms instead of medical centers. As a result, they lose money in tapping the services of shamans, and would be unable to avail of medical services from hospitals.

She expressed her hope that the lecture would allow the Filipino Community to provide help and support to those who are suffering from depression. She also provided her contact details if the Filipinos need professional help.

In July 2018, President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11036 on the Philippine Mental Health Act, which provides mental health services to those who suffer from mental illness from the local to central level, and prevents discrimination against those who have a form of mental illness. END

For more information, visit www.vientianepe.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/vientianepe/

A member of the Filipino Community inquires how Filipinos can access services of mental health centers in Laos. (Vientiane PE photo)