ISSN: 2578-5095
Authors: Bistis-Nadala CR*
This article explores the resilience ingrained in the Filipino community, drawing from the Bahala Na mentality and Bayanihan values. It examines how these cultural elements give rise to a dynamic force within society that goes beyond individual capacities. The narrative centers on a community mental health program in Concepcion, Iloilo, initiated prior to the enactment of the Mental Health Law in the Philippines, tracing its impact over a decade. The article showcases the transformative influence of communal resilience, evident in the increased numbers of patients and the rehabilitation of individuals once considered hopeless. The article artfully weaves together both prose and poetry, capturing the enduring spirit of Concepcion. The conclusion acknowledges the persistent challenges in mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The integrated poetic journey serves to highlight the resilience ingrained in Concepcion, offering a unique perspective in a world often focused on individual achievements. The Filipino experience emerges as a guiding light, exemplifying the profound strength derived from communal bonds in facing life's adversities.
Keywords: Mental Health; Bahala Na Mentality; Cultural Elements
