BFP launches hotline for those in need of mental health support

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said Monday it has launched a mental health crisis hotline for people who are struggling with their mental health.

BFP spokesperson Fire Superintendent Annalee Atienza said that suicide attempts in the country have been increasing in recent years. In 2023 alone, she said the BFP was able to rescue 31 victims who attempted to end their lives.

“Ayon sa data natin, sa statistics natin, nagkaroon po ng 15% increase ng rate ng mga suicide dito sa ating bansa. Nationwide, may bilang tayong 3,529 na mga suicide incidents,” Atienza said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview.

(Based on our data, there was a 15% increase in suicide rate in our country. Nationwide, we recorded a total of 3,529 suicide incidents.)

Through the “Kalingang Bumbero” hotline, she said that 114 BFP personnel who are trained mental health professionals are ready to provide assistance for those who need mental health support.

“Nag-undergo sila ng training dito sa ating National Center for Mental Health. Assistance ang ibibigay natin sa NCMH para matugunan itong mga pangangailangan na mental health ng ating mga kababayan, instead to just rescue them during their most down moment,” Atienza added.

(Our personnel underwent training from the National Center for Mental Health. We will provide assistance to the NCMH in addressing the mental health needs of our people, instead of just rescuing them during their most down moment.)

Those seeking help for their mental health may call: 0962-458-4BFP(237).

The NCMH also has a 24/7 crisis hotline available: 1553 (nationwide landline toll-free), 0919-057-1553 (Smart/TNT), or 0966-351-4518; 0917-899-8727 (Globe/TM).—RF, GMA Integrated News