Filipinos Are Aware of Mental Health But Many Don’t Know How to Act

The 2025 AXA Mind Health Study reveals a striking paradox: while most Filipinos recognize the importance of mental health, a large number are unsure how to respond when challenges arise, for themselves or others.

As the new year begins, many people are reflecting on health, balance, and overall well-being. Mental health has become a central part of that conversation. According to the AXA study, the Philippines ranks among the highest globally in mental health awareness, with 65% of Filipinos acknowledging the issue. Yet only about one-third feel confident in knowing what actions to take when faced with mental health struggles.

Paula Ferrer Cheng, Head of Research and Development at Mind You, AXA Philippines’ mental health partner, emphasizes the danger of awareness without action. “Knowing the signs of anxiety or depression isn’t enough. Without understanding what steps to take, people can feel stuck and vulnerable to worsening conditions. Education must go hand-in-hand with awareness so Filipinos not only recognize mental health challenges but also know how to respond.”

This gap between awareness and action carries real consequences. When people don’t know how to respond to mental health challenges, conditions can go unnoticed, leading to emotional strain and even financial burdens over time. The study also shows that individuals who are well-informed about mental health, those who understand signs, available support, and actionable steps, report better mental well-being and outcomes than those who feel unprepared.

“Aware individuals are better equipped to take meaningful steps toward well-being,” says Ayman Kandil, CEO of AXA Philippines. “AXA aims to support Filipinos in bridging the gap between awareness and action by providing practical, reliable resources for mental health management.”

AXA Launches Mind Health Self-Check Tool

To help Filipinos better manage their mental health, AXA has introduced the Mind Health Self-Check—a free, anonymous digital tool that evaluates your emotional well-being and provides actionable guidance.

The tool measures three key areas of life: Current State of Mind, Skills and Beliefs, and Lifestyle. After answering a series of detailed questions, users receive a Mind Health Index score ranging from 0 to 100, categorized into four levels:

• Flourishing (68+) – Excellent emotional, social, and psychological well-being
• Getting By (57–68) – Stable, but not fully thriving
• Languishing (43–57) – Low motivation and well-being, needing improvement
• Struggling (<43) – Experiencing significant emotional and psychosocial distress

Cheng notes, “The data reflects the pressures many Filipinos face over time and highlights the need for early, compassionate support.” A related Mind You survey of over 15,000 employees found that the main reason people sought help was simply needing someone to talk to, showing the importance of empathy and safe spaces.

Kandil adds, “Filipinos who are informed about mental health are more likely to take timely action, improving both their personal well-being and productivity. Tools like the AXA Mind Health Self-Check, combined with comprehensive health plans, empower individuals to care for their mental health effectively.”

Practical Support Beyond Awareness

AXA’s mental health programs go beyond raising awareness. The Mind Health Self-Check provides actionable self-care tips and guidance, while AXA health plans offer free mental health counseling. The Health Max Elite plan even includes coverage for select mental health conditions, ensuring Filipinos have support at every stage of life.

By bridging the gap between awareness and action, AXA is helping Filipinos move from recognizing mental health issues to actively managing their well-being.

For more information and to access the Mind Health Self-Check, visit AXA Philippines and take your first step toward better mental health.