DepEd Introduces Mental Health Support Line for Students

Photo courtesy of Balita

The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines has launched a strengthened helpline to support student mental health. The Learners TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline now directly connects to the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline, ensuring immediate professional assistance. This development aims to provide quality healthcare to students nationwide.

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Previously, the DepEd's helpline, initiated through its Disaster Risk Reduction Management Service in 2021, offered support numbers from various organizations to assist not only students but also teachers and the public during mental and psychological distress. The latest enhancement aligns with Republic Act No. 11223, the Universal Health Care Act, and Republic Act No. 12080, which focus on mental health in education.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara stated, “By linking our #33733 Helpline with NCMH experts, we bring compassionate and high-quality healthcare to students—ensuring every call finds partnership in their journey to recovery, safety, and mental peace.” This initiative underscores the essential role of youth mental health in the nation's development.

Looking forward, this move is expected to strengthen students' mental health support and inform future strategies in educational mental health services. Continued collaboration with mental health professionals will enhance the helpline's capacity to address student needs effectively.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Balita · 12 May 2026