MENTAL health issues are a significant challenge in the Philippines.
Problems like high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide are exacerbated by factors like poverty and natural disasters, with youth and adolescents particularly affected.
Poor mental health literacy, which includes a lack of knowledge about mental conditions and professional help, contributes to the problem.
While legislative frameworks like the Mental Health Act exist, a multi-faceted approach combining policy, increased funding, accessible services, and a cultural shift away from stigma is needed to improve mental health care for Filipinos.
In the Philippines, common mental health issues include depression and anxiety. These are the most prevalent mental health conditions, impacting millions of Filipinos.
Suicide rates are increasing, especially among young people, and are a significant cause of death for adolescents.
Substance use disorders (read: drug abuse) is a major area of concern and are linked to mental health conditions.
Poverty, natural disasters, and socio-economic inequalities contribute to the burden of mental illness. A societal stigma around mental health prevents many from seeking or receiving appropriate care, according to the report by the National Institutes of Health.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, there is a clear connection between a person’s dental health and their mental health.
While it may not be widely understood, numerous studies have identified associations between mental health and oral health. However, the interaction often does not get much attention, even among health care professionals.
Dental health problems can impact a person’s quality of life and exacerbate mental health problems. For example, when a person has poor oral health, it can impact their eating, speech and self-esteem and lead to reduced social interactions, further harming mental well-being.
Many people, including people with mental health conditions, have anxiety associated with dental care and procedures and avoid needed care. Chronic oral pain can contribute to poor mental health and make treating mental health conditions more difficult.
Symptoms of mental illnesses can contribute to poor nutrition which in turn contributes to poor dental health.
People with mental illness, particularly those experiencing symptoms of serious mental illness, may have difficulty maintaining an effective daily dental care routine and accessing needed dental treatment.
There are four key dental conditions seen in patients with psychiatric disorders: tooth decay, gum diseases, dry mouth (xerostomia), and teeth grinding (bruxism).
Dry mouth can be a complication of anxiety and is a side effect of many psychotropic medications. There are remedies; over-the-counter products (such as oral moisturizers, mouth rinses, toothpaste or xylitol gum) can be helpful for dry mouth.
Teeth grinding, which can damage teeth and contribute to teeth and jaw pain, is treated by wearing a night guard and working with a psychiatrist to address medication side effects and psychological factors. Therapy can be helpful if a person is extremely anxious about going to the dentist.
Poor oral health is also common in people with dementia who may have difficulty with daily routines or engaging in more comprehensive oral care.
In addition, research has associated periodontal disease and tooth loss with a higher risk for dementia. New research shows a link between gum disease and the formation of amyloid plaque associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
