Only a small fraction of Filipinos truly understand mental health and know how to respond to it, according to recent research. The 2025 AXA Mind Health Study, released Thursday, revealed that while 65 percent of the population are aware of mental health issues, an even smaller number can recognize warning signs and seek proper support. The study further highlighted that those who are informed about mental health tend to report better overall well-being than those who are not.
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Awareness Alone Isn’t Enough
Paula Ferrer Cheng, head of research and development at Mind You, AXA Philippines’ partner in mental health, emphasized the importance of coupling awareness with action. She said, “Awareness without action leaves people stuck, and in some cases, vulnerable to worsening conditions. That’s why education must go hand-in-hand with any awareness effort.” Cheng added, “We need to ensure that Filipinos not only recognize mental health issues but also know how to respond. Without that, we risk letting early warning signs escalate into long-term distress.”
The study also noted that the gap between awareness and practical response poses serious risks, which could translate into long-term emotional and economic challenges for individuals and communities.
Tools to Empower Mental Health Action
To tackle this, AXA introduced the Mind Health Self-Check, a free and anonymous digital tool that allows users to evaluate their current mental state and access actionable self-care resources. Through the Mind Health Self-Check, users receive a Mind Health Index score ranging from zero to 100, which categorizes them into four levels: flourishing, representing excellent emotional, social, and psychological well-being; getting by, indicating general stability; languishing, reflecting low motivation; and struggling, signaling significant distress.
Ayman Kandil, CEO of AXA Philippines, highlighted the importance of providing practical solutions alongside awareness. “Filipinos who are more informed are better equipped to take action and to thrive. This is why we believe it’s crucial to move from awareness toward practical solutions that empower individuals to care for their mind health,” he said.
The findings underscore the urgent need for improved mental health literacy across the country. With many Filipinos unable to identify common conditions or know how to seek help, the lack of understanding can lead to worsening mental health outcomes, reduced productivity, and added strain on families and communities.
By empowering individuals with both knowledge and tools, initiatives like the Mind Health Self-Check can help protect emotional well-being and support a healthier, more resilient population.
