Northern Samar’s provincial government has institutionalized community-based mental health services through a newly enacted ordinance to expand access to affordable, high-quality mental healthcare for residents.

Approved on third and final reading by the provincial board, the ordinance seeks to promote and protect the rights of persons with mental health needs, including the right to confidentiality and to access appropriate healthcare services.

Under the measure, mental health services include outpatient consultations, counseling, community-based interventions, psychotropic medicines, referral systems, awareness campaigns and crisis helplines.

“The policy also integrates preventive, curative, and rehabilitative mental health services across all levels of care, from the provincial government down to municipal and barangay health systems,” the provincial government said in a statement Friday.

To oversee implementation, the ordinance creates the Northern Samar Mental Health Council (NSMHC), which will serve as the province’s coordinating and monitoring body for mental health programs and policies.

Governor Harris Ongchuan will chair the council, with Vice Governor Clarence Dato serving as co-chairperson and Provincial Health Officer Aurora Dubongco as vice chairperson.

The NSMHC will collaborate with local government units, national agencies, institutions, and private partners to implement mental health initiatives across the province.

The ordinance likewise establishes Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services Committees and Peer Support Groups to strengthen the mental well-being of such sectors as youth, senior citizens, and other vulnerable groups.

The legislation aims to establish a community-based mental health care system and strengthen interagency collaboration to reduce stigma and improve access to services. (PNA)