Self-care, support system vital as 34% of Filipinos report frequent stress — doctor

A medical doctor has emphasized the importance of self-care and developing coping mechanisms as more Filipinos reported feeling stressed more frequently. 

In Darlene Cay’s report on “24 Oras” Friday, Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal, Philippine Psychiatric Association president, said that managing stress begins with basic but crucial habits.

“We need to take good care of ourselves first and foremost kasi hindi natin matutulungan ang ating loved ones. Get enough rest and sleep. Make sure na we eat on time, eat more of the serotonin-boosting food, nutritious food,” she said.

She also recommends doing exercises, which can be done for free.

“Exercise is also very good to boost our happy hormones called endorphins, and of course, support system is very important,” she said.

The reminder came as the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that more than three in four Filipinos often experience stress, with money being the top reason, followed by health, job/school, and family. 

According to the survey, conducted from September 24 to 30, 2025, 34% of adult Filipinos reported experiencing stress frequently in their daily lives. Thirty-two percent experience it sometimes, 30% rarely, and 4% never. 

The percentage of those who experience stress frequently (34%) was also higher than the 27% reported in the December 2019 survey.

Several Filipinos interviewed in Cay's report echoed the survey's findings, citing various financial and personal struggles.

“Siguro 10 over 10. Perfect 10,” respondent Jasper Baguisa said, rating his stress level.

Another respondent, Elizabeth Celin, answered “seven,” saying her husband has been hospitalized.

“Schoolwork, ‘yung pagpa-pile ng workload, and siyempre, time management since ‘yung commute is a big factor,” student Hans Jorolan said.

For others, the pressure of daily expenses and the rising cost of living have made life increasingly difficult.

“Ang hirap na po kasi ngayon. Madaming bayarin, lalo na ‘pag sa pamilya,” said 27-year-old Maria Lorena Arminio, who also expressed frustration over corruption in government.

“Nakikita mo na ang daming pera na nakuha nila, tapos ang daming mahihirap po talaga ngayon,” she said in tears.

As we mark World Mental Health Day, here are the different types of professionals you can turn to when times get tough, from psychiatrists and psychologists to guidance counselors and life coaches. 

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News