Masking Off the Deteriorating Vessel of People with Depression

In a world where mental health is often discussed but not fully understood, depression remains one of the most misunderstood conditions. Society may express sympathy when it is discussed in general terms, but genuine empathy tends to fade when the crippling realities of day-to-day functionality come into view. 

Depression is more than just feeling sad or down; it robs people of motivation, energy, and physical vitality. Tasks as simple as brushing your teeth or taking a shower become monumental. This deterioration, both mental and physical, often leads to isolation, as those with depression feel further misunderstood when society overlooks their struggles.

Imagine a ship at sea, once sturdy, now slowly decaying. The energy it takes to function, like pulling an anchor from the depths of the ocean, is immense. For many, staying in bed becomes the only bearable option, while unwashed dishes, unchanged sheets, and clutter accumulate, reflecting the mind’s disarray. Society, at times, offers well-meaning words like "just push through" or "stay positive," but these often fall short.

According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health in 2020, the reality is that depression is not a matter of willpower; it causes physical exhaustion and cognitive impairment, affecting memory, focus, and even decision-making. This inability to perform basic tasks is a visible sign of the body's surrender to the mind's struggles. 

Meanwhile, according to the Department of Health, a Philippine World Health Organization Special Initiative for Mental Health research conducted in 2020 shows that at least 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from one mental, neurological, or substance use disorder. One reason is that mental illness is stigmatized, which is a continuous issue not only in the Philippines but globally. Individuals in need of assistance frequently attempt to conceal symptoms rather than talking about them with others, which might worsen their mental state.

In addition, the expense of therapy is one of major hindrances to people seeking it. Finding an inexpensive psychiatrist or therapist can be challenging due to the dearth of mental health specialists in this country. Psychosocial health is not given enough priority, and mental health professionals are also affected. They are overworked, often working overtime to cope with months-long waitlists, long patient lineups, and limited resources, facilities, and funding. 

These experiences empty the human vessel, leaving behind a body too exhausted to function. While society may recognize physical neglect as a sign of depression, it is often mistaken for laziness or a lack of discipline. Yet, behind these unkempt appearances lies someone paralyzed by an overwhelming sense of “pointlessness”. 

Depression, like rust eating away a ship, slowly destroys both the mind and body, leaving those affected to surpass a storm that society struggles to fully comprehend.

Notwithstanding these obstacles, the country has worked hard to lower the stigma associated with mental illness and expand the access to mental healthcare. A milestone toward institutionalizing inclusive mental health services was marked in 2018 by the Philippine Mental Health Act, also known as Republic Act 11036. Funding for this act, which aims to safeguard the rights of people who have suffered from mental illnesses and give them access to comprehensive and integrated mental health care, is currently lacking. Indeed, the sole act's gaps and challenges are still evident.

Therefore, the Philippines' growing emphasis on mental health is encouraging, but improving recent advancements is crucial to transforming mental health care. In order to have localized data collection of patients who require counseling services and improved patient involvement in mental health legislation, a sustainable framework requires efficient use of resources from the government and private sectors. Since Filipino culture still presents a barrier and some people attribute mental illnesses to personal weaknesses or supernatural causes, this should involve providing mental health education to isolated communities through community-based and school-based initiatives. 

Thus, the need for high-quality, easily accessible mental healthcare for everyone will persist as long as there is someone who must prioritize basic daily needs over expensive professional consultations, as long as someone endures deteriorating mental health because they cannot afford daily medications, and as long as mental health services are underfunded and understaffed.

Until society’s understanding of it grows from mere awareness to genuine empathy, acknowledging the full spectrum of its effects, people with depression will remain trapped in their deteriorating vessels. The empathy needed is not a simple pat on the back but a deep, unyielding compassion that acknowledges the slow erosion of both body and mind. True support means understanding the strength it takes for someone with depression to keep going, despite feeling broken and depleted.

Rossyvett Narvaez is an opinion writer and a member of the social media committee for 4079 Magazine. A fourth-year Journalism student at PUP Manila, combining academic skills and on-the-ground experience as a multimedia reporter-intern at PinoyWeekly, focusing on labor struggles and the lives of migrants. She thrives on impactful journalism and storytelling that drives change.