Mental health is a basic human right and it is directly connected with our ability to make decisions, build relationships, and shape the world we live in. However, recent events combined with continued mental
health stigma have caused mental health issues to rise globally. AXA Philippines, one of the leading
insurance companies in the country, shared in their 2022 Mind Health and Wellbeing study that mental
health conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression are common among people in Asia, while the
2022 State of the Global Workplace Report by analytics firm Gallup revealed that stress among workers in
the Philippines is the highest among Southeast Asian nations .

Though we still have a long way to go, the good news is that the Philippines ranked second among Asian
countries in terms of taking measures to improve their citizens’ wellbeing in the last months of 2020,
according to the 2021 Pulse of Asia: The Health of Asia Barometer report . Seeking professional advice,
also known as psychotherapy, is not just for those with diagnosed mental health disorders. Psychotherapy
can also provide a safe space where one can deal not only with stress, anxiety, but also healthy ways on
how to improve the quality of their lives. According to Healthline , here are some key benefits of therapy:

Understanding yourself and your emotions better.

Every person will go through highly emotional times at some point in their lives, which can be overwhelming. Talking to a licensed mental health professional can help you identify and understand things better, no matter how big or small your concern may seem. According to the American Psychological Association , psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, encourages open and honest dialogue about issues that cause you distress and develop strategies that will help manage stressors that impact your life.

Helping you regain a sense of control. As we grow older, we can often feel overwhelmed with how fast-
paced and unpredictable life can become. Similar to how you feel better after talking to a friend, therapy
relieves you of unnecessary emotions and anxiety when we start to feel lost. It lets you see things in
another perspective and gives a sense of ease, which ultimately leads to better decision making whether in your personal or professional life.

Stress and anxiety can impact anyone, but the upside is that anyone can practice good mental health
habits. Practicing me-time is part of AXA’s recommended good physical health behaviors along with good
nutrition, regular exercise, plenty of sleep, not smoking, and low alcohol intake, which is an essential skill
a person needs to flourish, according to the 2022 Mind Health and Wellbeing study.

Taking the necessary steps to ensure you and your family’s overall wellbeing is essential in achieving your
goals and dreams. In line with their proactive and holistic approach to health, AXA Philippines offers free
access to counselling with licensed psychologists to its Health Care Access customers.

Health Care Access is AXA’s comprehensive health protection product. It is ideal for families and
individuals looking into getting a plan that covers hospitalization and primary health care needs. Health
Care Access offers inpatient care, outpatient care, and 24/7 teleconsultation, emergency care, preventive
care, plus a longevity health fund that may be used for future medical needs at age 76 onwards.

Current policy holders can easily book their free session through Health Hub on Emma, AXA Philippines’
award-winning app that lets customers check their policy information, file for claims, and avail of medical
teleconsultation, among others.

“While the future is something you can’t predict, your wellbeing is something you can protect. You can and should future-proof your wellness,” said Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer. “At AXA, we are committed towards raising awareness on the importance of mental health, breaking down stigma, and equipping individuals with the tools to protect and improve their mental wellbeing for a better and
healthier life ahead.”

For more information on AXA Health Care Access, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/health-
care-access.

_{1 https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1621483/gallup-poll-finds-ph-workers-most-stressed-in-southeast-asia
2 https://www.bworldonline.com/health/2021/02/09/343556/despite-low-life-expectancy-filipinos-are-optimistic-about-
their-health-report/
3 https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-therapy
4 https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/understanding}