Saving someone’s life involves seeing the signs and triggers according to MakatiMed

The challenge for anyone who knows of a friend or loved one thinking of taking their life is to be aware of their triggers and stressors, and observant of out-of-the-ordinary behavior.

 

The loss of the will to live, withdrawing from family and friends, a lack of interest even in activities and things that once sparked joy, and sleeping too much or too little are the classic symptoms of a person who may be courting suicidal thoughts. And yet, as beloved celebrities like chef Anthony Bourdain, comedian Robin Williams, and others who have taken their own lives have shown us, a happy and successful exterior can mask struggles with hopelessness and despair.

While suicide rates in the Philippines are lower than global statistics (an estimate 3.2 to 3.5 deaths per 100,000 Filipinos are by suicide, according to the Department of Health), they remain a serious cause for concern. Thirty percent of suicide cases are by individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women, and whether they push through with it or not, 1 in 5 youths have seriously thought of ending their lives.

What would drive someone to resort to such an irreversible and permanent act? “Mental illness or personality disorder affect a person’s ability to make sound judgement,” says Carmina Charmaine G. Bernardo, MD, FPPA, FPCPsych, a psychiatrist and Head of the Mood and Anxiety Resource and Referral Center (MARRC), Institute of Neuroscience, from top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

“But so can a traumatic life event like a bad breakup, death in the family, physical or emotional abuse, financial loss, or a ruined career. A person dealing with a painful illness or terminal disease may decide to end their suffering prematurely. Intense feelings of worthlessness, loneliness, and being a burden to others have also pushed people to take their own lives.”

“In other words, certain triggers or stressors compel people to take action and free themselves from what they perceive to be unbearable and unending physical or emotional pain.”

The challenge for anyone who knows of a friend or loved one thinking of taking their life is to be aware of their triggers and stressors, and observant of out-of-the-ordinary behavior.

“Of course, this is not always easy, as a person thinking of committing suicide can pretend that all is well so as not to arouse suspicion,” explains Dr. Bernardo. “Some even appear suddenly calm and happy after experiencing severe depression. This could mean that they are resolved with their decision to end their life.”

Looking out for a friend or family member with suicidal thoughts is a huge responsibility. Still, if you can prevent them from pushing through with it, you could actually save a life—and that is no mean feat.

Dr. Bernardo cites common triggers and warning signs:

Specific dates and occasions.

Everybody gets a case of the birthday blues: Maybe the special day reminds us that we are getting older or have no one significant to celebrate it with. “Birthdays, anniversaries, and special holidays can be sensitive times for suicidals,” reveals Dr. Bernardo. “In fact, an international team of researchers discovered that Monday has the highest risk of suicide mortality, as does New Year’s Day. Call a friend or loved one to check on how they’re doing or make

Reckless behavior.

Does your friend or family member drink too much, drive too fast, not watch where they are going, miss doctor appointments, or skip prescription medication? “A lack of regard for their safety, health, and well-being can mean they no longer value their life,” shares Dr. Bernardo. “Offer to accompany them to their appointments or drive them home when they are under the influence.”

Seeing people.

While suicidals tend to withdraw from the world, others will go out of their way to seek out certain friends or relatives. Perhaps they will forgive someone—or ask someone for their forgiveness. “It is likely a form of closure before they end things,” says Dr. Bernardo. Giving away prized possessions is another sign of “saying goodbye” by offering something to remember them by. “Simply accept the token and assure the person that it will be in your safekeeping for now. It’s a subtle way of saying you will give it back when things get better.”

Talking about suicide is never easy, both for the person contemplating it and the one who speculates a loved one is strongly considering taking their life.

“But it has to be done,” says Dr. Bernardo. “Ask them pointblank gently and coming from a place of concern and sincerity. And be prepared to listen—not judge, scold, or dismiss their feelings. Let them talk and express themselves as much as they want. Sometimes, venting provides them with much-needed relief from negative thoughts.”

For the emotionally vulnerable, knowing that someone genuinely cares for them and wants to help them get out of their black hole can be enough reason to live. “Offer hope and the prospect of better things ahead if they just give themselves and others a chance,” says Dr. Bernardo.

Most importantly, evaluate if a suicidal friend or family member is in immediate danger. Those at the highest risk already have a specific suicide plan, the means to carry out the plan, the time set, and an intention.

“If an attempt is imminent, make sure they don’t have access to lethal objects that they can use to harm themselves like drugs, guns, or knives. And never ever leave a suicidal person alone,” stresses Dr. Bernardo. “The best that you can do is to call emergency services or bring the person to the nearest hospital where they can get the necessary professional help.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

The Role of Food in Supporting Mental Well-being

 

Mental well-being is influenced by many factors, including sleep, physical activity, relationships, and how we manage stress. One area that is often underestimated is food. What we eat does more than fuel the body. It also affects brain function, emotional balance, and how we respond to daily challenges. While nutrition is not a substitute for professional mental health care, thoughtful food choices can play a supportive role in overall mental wellbeing.

How Food Affects the Brain

The brain requires a constant supply of energy and nutrients to function properly. Carbohydrates provide glucose, which is the brain’s primary energy source. Protein supplies amino acids that are needed to produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are linked to mood and motivation. Healthy fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, support brain structure and communication between brain cells.

When meals are skipped or diets rely heavily on ultra processed foods, blood sugar levels can rise and fall quickly. These shifts may contribute to irritability, fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Eating balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can help stabilize energy levels and support mental clarity throughout the day.

Key Nutrients Linked to Mental Wellbeing

Certain nutrients play an important role in supporting emotional health. B vitamins help regulate brain chemistry and energy production. Magnesium is involved in nervous system regulation and may support relaxation and sleep quality. Iron and zinc are essential for cognitive performance and focus, while omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with improved mood in some research.

Foods such as leafy greens, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, eggs, yogurt, and fatty fish provide many of these nutrients. Eating a variety of whole foods allows the body to access a wide range of vitamins and minerals without relying on rigid rules or restrictions.

The Gut and Mental Health Connection

The relationship between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a meaningful role in mental wellbeing. The gut microbiome helps regulate inflammation, stress responses, and the production of neurotransmitters that influence mood.

Fiber rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains support beneficial gut bacteria. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can also help maintain a healthy gut environment. Over time, these dietary choices may contribute to improved mood stability and emotional resilience.

Mindful Eating as Part Of Self Care

Mental wellbeing is influenced not only by what we eat, but also by how we eat. Eating while distracted, rushed, or stressed can reduce enjoyment and interfere with digestion. Mindful eating encourages awareness of hunger cues, flavors, and portion sizes, helping people reconnect with their bodies.

Creating simple routines around meals, such as sitting down to eat or preparing food with intention, can be a powerful form of self care. Many people find that combining nourishing food habits with other daily wellness practices creates a stronger foundation for mental health. Resources like Rooted and Rising offer practical guidance on integrating everyday self care, including nutrition, into mental health support routines.

A Realistic and Balanced Perspective

It is important to approach food and mental well-being with flexibility and compassion. No single way of eating guarantees emotional health, and overly strict rules can sometimes increase stress. A balanced approach that prioritizes consistency, enjoyment, and nourishment is often more sustainable.

Food is one part of a broader mental well-being picture. When paired with adequate rest, movement, connection, and professional support when needed, nutrition can be a valuable tool for supporting emotional health and improving overall quality of life.

 

5 ways to establish mental wellness in the workplace

 

Press Release:

Ninety thousand hours. One-third of your life. That, according to industrial-organization psychologist and data scientist Andrew Naber, is the amount of time the average person will spend at work over a lifetime. With so much of our waking hours devoted to our job, isn’t it only fair to expect our workplace to be a safe, comfortable, and toxic-free environment, one that supports employees’ mental health and wellbeing?

Yes, says Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD, chief of the Section of Psychiatry of the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Companies that prioritize the mental health of their workers can expect inspired productivity, sound decision making, and harmonious interactions among colleagues. When employees feel at ease in the workplace, they perform better, are motivated to get up in the morning, and are less likely to be depressed or suffer from burnout. It’s a win-win situation for all.”

In the Philippines, employers in the private sector are mandated to implement mental health workplace policies and programs through the comprehensive and ever-evolving guidelines by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). What else can companies do to champion mental health and wellness at work? Little things make a huge difference, and MakatiMed suggests implementing these five small but significant changes:

Make counseling accessible. 

“Oftentimes, people want to express what’s troubling them but are wary about confiding in a colleague or don’t have the funds to see a specialist,” shares Dr. Jurilla. “Get a life coach or organizational psychologist on board so staffers know there’s a professional who can help them deal with their mental health concerns objectively and free from judgment.”

Promote flexible work schedules.

If possible, let them continue a work-from-home setup with an option to work at the office. “Such arrangements have been known to lower stress and make employees more productive,” suggests Dr. Jurilla. “You take away the tiring commute, giving them the freedom to work wherever best suits them. This allows for work-life balance. Injecting ‘me’ time in between banging out reports or meeting a client on Zoom can refresh the mind and spirit.”

Create quiet spaces. 

“Convert an extra room in the office into a meditation or quiet corner. Hire a yoga or tai-chi instructor to hold one-hour classes for the staff (a video session works too!). The silence and slow, gentle movements will surely calm frayed nerves and clear an anxious mind,” Dr. Jurilla points out.

Stay away after office hours.

If you get the urge to text, call, or email an employee after she or he has gone home for the day, the weekend, or on leave—stop yourself, stresses Dr. Jurilla. “These people already gave most of their hours and efforts to their jobs. Respect their personal time and let them enjoy their time away from work.”

Be open.

How do you know if your employees are truly happy with their jobs? Ask them “Perhaps someone is saddled with too much work, or another feels underutilized,” says Dr. Jurilla. “By consulting your team, addressing their concerns, and involving them in the decision-making process, you’ll make them feel relevant. Heard. Like they matter. And that’s the first step to promoting mental wellness at work.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email

mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Interior Design Strategies for Mental Well-Being

 

In the pursuit of mental well-being, the environment we inhabit plays a crucial role. Interior design goes beyond aesthetics; it has the power to shape our emotions, behaviors, and overall mental state. By strategically crafting spaces that foster positivity and tranquility, interior design enhances mental well-being. This article will delve into key strategies that leverage design principles to create environments that are conducive to improving mental health.

Holistic Color Selection

Color is a powerful communicator of emotions and moods, and can have an influence on them as well. The strategic selection of colors is paramount in interior design for mental well- being. Soft, calming tones such as blues and greens promote relaxation, while warm neutrals can evoke feelings of comfort and security. Understanding color psychology allows designers to create environments that nurture positive emotions and contribute to a sense of overall well-being.

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, centered around the incorporation of natural elements into interior spaces, has been proven to positively impact mental health. Bringing nature indoors through the use of indoor plants, natural materials, and ample natural light creates a connection with the outdoors. This design strategy enhances aesthetics and contributes to stress reduction, improved concentration, and an overall sense of well-being.

Thoughtful Lighting

Lighting plays a pivotal role in influencing mood and mental well-being. Thoughtful lighting design involves a balance between ambient, task, and accent lighting. Natural light is particularly beneficial, so maximizing access to windows and incorporating daylight into spaces is crucial. Adjustable lighting fixtures allow for flexibility, enabling individuals to create environments that suit their varying needs and moods.

Comfortable and Ergonomic Furniture

The impact of furniture on mental well-being extends beyond aesthetics. Comfortable and ergonomic furniture supports physical health, preventing discomfort and fatigue. Properly designed furniture, such as those from Ligne Roset Chelsea, also contributes to mental well- being by creating spaces that facilitate relaxation, concentration, and social interaction. Thoughtful furniture arrangements promote comfort and encourage positive mental states.

Decluttered Environments

Clutter in the physical environment can contribute to mental clutter. A key strategy for promoting mental well-being is to design decluttered and organized spaces. Thoughtful storage solutions, minimalist design principles, and intentional decluttering contribute to a sense of order and tranquility. A clear physical space supports a clear mind.

Mindful Decor

Decor choices have the power to evoke emotions and memories. Mindful decor selection involves choosing items that hold personal significance, inspire joy, and contribute positively to mental well-being. Meaningful artwork, cherished mementos, and decor that aligns with individual tastes create a harmonious and uplifting environment.

Conclusion

Interior design strategies for mental well-being prioritize the creation of environments that foster positivity, tranquility, and a profound sense of comfort. Recognizing the interconnectedness of our surroundings and mental well-being, interior design emerges as a powerful and transformative tool for crafting spaces that enhance aesthetic appeal and promote holistic health and harmony. Through thoughtful design choices, personalized spaces, and a focus on sensory comfort, interior design becomes a catalyst for elevating the

quality of life within the spaces we inhabit.