DOH provides mental health counseling to OFWs in Israel

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, on Saturday, led the online counselling sessions for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) living in Israel.

Herbosa was joined by experts from DOH Mariveles Mental Health and Wellness General Hospital to debrief and provide psychological first aid to 60 OFWs, while some patients were referred to further mental health services offered by the DOH.

“We also understand the anxiety and fear of everybody. We want to tell you you’re not alone. Kahit malayo kami, nandirito ang Pilipinas. Yung Department of Health naman tuloy-tuloy kami to support and endeavor to provide one of the services, which is psychosocial support,” he said.

(We also understand the anxiety and fear of everybody. We want to tell you you’re not alone. Even if we are far away, the Philippines is here. The Department of Health will continue to support and endeavor to provide one of the services which is psychosocial support.)

“Please know that we are always here and continue to explore all avenues to assist you. Stay strong, stay vigilant, and continue to look out for one another. We are praying for your safety and for peace in the region,” he added.

The DOH initiative was conducted in support of efforts by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers to provide mental health and psychosocial support for Filipinos amid armed hostilities in Israel. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/ VAL, GMA Integrated News