NCMH Handles Nearly 700 Calls During 2025 Holiday Season

The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) provided crucial support to hundreds of Filipinos during the recent holiday period, handling a significant volume of distress calls.

Holiday Season Seeks Surge in Mental Health Calls

Data from the Department of Health (DOH) reveals that the NCMH crisis hotline received a total of 675 calls between December 21 and December 29, 2025. This figure highlights the heightened emotional challenges many face during what is often portrayed as a joyous season.

DOH Spokesperson Dr. Albert Domingo emphasized the critical importance of this service. "Mental health is important because we consider every call the hotline receives as a life saved," Domingo stated. He further explained that without an outlet, "emotions build up and could lead to more serious consequences."

Profile of Callers and Common Concerns

The health department's analysis of the calls provided insight into who was reaching out and why. The majority of callers were young adults, with the largest group aged 18 to 30 years old, followed by those between 31 and 43.

December 23 marked the peak for call volume during the monitored period. Data also showed that female callers outnumbered males.

The primary reasons for contacting the hotline were:

Symptoms related to anxiety and depression.
Challenges and conflicts in love and romantic relationships.
Issues and stresses within family dynamics.

Continued Access to Free and Immediate Support

In light of this data, the DOH is reinforcing its message to the public. The department strongly encourages anyone experiencing mental or emotional distress to utilize the available confidential support.

"The NCMH crisis hotline will remain open for immediate psychological first aid and free mental health consultation," the DOH assured. This service is a vital resource for individuals needing professional intervention or simply a listening ear during a crisis.

The following hotline numbers are available 24/7: