Forum addresses stress
levels among Pinoys

Survey shows that Filipinos are consistently one of the happiest races in the world. Ironically, it is also the anti-thesis of happiness that is fast eating the health of many of them. Stress can cause psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression.

According to the WHO, depression is projected to reach second place to the global burden of illness by year 2020. Depression is the leading cause of disability," said Dr. Bernadette M. Arcena, consultant at the St. Luke’s Medical Center psychiatry section.

In an effort to know the real score on this emerging lifestyle problem among Filipinos, the unit is coming up with its third post-graduate course titled "Toxic Ka Ba?" to tackle the mounting cases of stress among the local population on March 5 at the Auditorium 1 of Cathedral Heights building complex, SLMC Quezon City.

It covers an array of subjects that underscore anti-stress measures in various aspects. the lectures will be given by respected names in highly specialized multi-disciplinary fields. Included in the discussion are: How Filipinos Experience the Stress of Illness?; Filipino Family Dynamics in Dealing with Chronic Illness; Culture and Stress; Pinay Sex Woes; Spirituality as a Means of Coping; and Money Matters in Clinical Practice. A live demonstration of a practical self-help anti-stress physical exercise will also be an added feature of the event.

Speakers include: Dr. Monina Garduño-Cruz, head of St. Luke’s psychiatry section; Prof. Felipe Jocano, anthropologist; psychiatrists Lourdes Lapuz, Agnes Bueno, and Alma Jimenez. Fr. Melchor Bernal, SVD, a priest with a degree in psychology, will talk about how spirituality can help Filipinos cope with stress.

The postgraduate course is ideal for medical doctors, caregivers, nurses, psychologists, para-medical staff and students. For inquiries call St. Luke’s psychiatry section at 723 1103 extension 4303.