PHL psychologists give advice in dealing with depression among OFWs

Concerned about the recent spate of suicides and accidents involving overseas Filipino workers due to depression, psychologists and counselors in the country have given some advice on what could be done to combat the psychological condition.

Depression has been found to be high among OFWs. It affected one OFW in Hong Kong who cut off his private part. Another one in Saudi Arabia died from stroke after being retrenched and became jobless.  Also, an OFW in Bahrain tried to take her life several times due to depression.

“There are many ways OFWs can overcome depression: Communicate constantly with family and friends in the Philippines, be grateful to opportunities, set realistic goals, bond with co-workers, exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, and visit mental health professionals whenever necessary,” Joy-Alvi “Doc Joy” Aranas, counseling psychologist and guidance counselor at the De La Salle University-Dasmariñas told GMA News Online in an email interview.

Doc Joy said, “The immediate concern is homesickness. Other concerns are discrimination and abuse. I also handled annulment cases, which mostly involves spouse of OFW,” he added.

Raphael Inocencio, a registered psychologist and founding partner of Better Steps Psychology, Inc.  on the other hand, believed that acceptance is the key so that OFWs can combat depression.

“The most important thing is to accept and go abroad WHOLEHEARTEDLY. Many people who become OFWs do it out of obligation or feel forced or coerced by family or circumstances. OFWs need to be prepared for all the challenges of homesickness, loneliness, and hard work,” he pointed out in an email interview in September 18.

He then suggested ways that could lessen depression among OFWs.

“There is no sure-fire way to prevent depression because depression is a multi-factorial problem but the following activities have been shown to reduce the risk of being clinically depressed:

1. Exercise

2. Have good coping strategies and skills and exercising these strategies and skills effectively

3. Have good communication with family and develop friendships in workplace for emotional support

4. Set clear expectations with family members about money and plans

Dr. Bernadette “Babes” Manalo, a psychiatrist at the St. Luke’s Medical Center-Quezon City and at The Medical City-Clark, advised OFWs to just keep themselves busy and have social support.

“They must also make sure to keep in touch with loved ones and care for themselves,” the doctor who has distinguished between depression and sadness has recommended.

Basic therapeutic protocol still applies with OFWs, said Dr. Tyler Ong, a clinical psychologist, family and marriage therapist, and psychotherapist.

“But the unique issue that haunts them is the constant push-pull of connection and then separation from loved ones. It is expected that every time the OFWs return to their country of work, there is going to be some dip in mood,” he said, referring to mood changes.

So even though none of his current clients are OFWs, Dr. Ong agrees with Dr. Manalo that “self-care is necessary” for the sector.

“Communication via electronic means does not take the place of face-to-face contact and misunderstanding often arises. Thus, a daily routine of self-care is necessary for the OFW,” he said.

Dr. Ong also concurs with the other doctors in establishing rapport with others, Filipinos or not.

“A community of support in their country of work does not necessarily mean that the community has to be all Filipinos. Anyone who can listen and offer emotional support and practical help to the OFW can become part of that supportive community.” —LBG, GMA News