A “Pamper Day” event at the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) gave patients, caregivers, and hospital staff a much-needed break through free haircuts, massages, snacks, and consultations as part of the National Mental Health Week celebration.

Dr. Stachys Neil Espino, Medical Specialist II of R1MC, said the activity was among several events lined up for the week to promote mental health care and awareness.

“Meron po tayong weeklong celebration. Nag-start na po tayo last Sunday for our Mental Health Fun Run which was participated in by our hospital employees, our partners,” Espino said.

The R1MC Mental Health Department, in partnership with various organizations, organized the event to extend wellness services not only to patients but also to their guardians and caregivers.

One of the beneficiaries, Estrella Gamazon, was thankful for the free services.

“Kasi libre, tapos wala ka na ring aanuhin na bayad, tapos nakapag-massage na kami,” Gamazon said.

According to Dr. Marita Loreta Aganon, Medical Specialist III at R1MC, the program aimed to raise awareness on the importance of mental health among both patients and those who provide care for them.

“To make people aware of the importance of mental health. Hindi lang para doon sa patients natin and their carers but also for the people who are providing care for these people,” Aganon said.

She also reminded the public not to hesitate to seek professional help when facing mental health concerns.

“Hindi po nakakahiya na mag-seek kayo ng consultation. Laging tatandaan na kung mas maagang matignan ang kondisyon niyo, mas magiging madali at mas mabilis po ang paggamot nito,” Aganon added.

Over a hundred service users and caregivers benefited from the event, which R1MC hopes will continue to inspire more open conversations about mental wellness in the community.