Mental health stigma fuels misunderstanding, psychologist warns amid school violence

MANILA — Mental health professionals are pushing back against public perceptions that link psychological conditions to violent behavior, amid growing concerns over school safety in the country.

Dr. John Manuel Kliatchko, president of the Psychologists Association, emphasized that experiencing depression, anxiety, or negative thoughts does not necessarily lead to violent acts. "A person may experience these conditions. They may have depression, anxiety, and negative thoughts. But that does not automatically translate to school violence," Kliatchko said.

The warning comes as the nation grapples with heightened awareness of school violence incidents. Mental health experts have expressed concern that public discourse increasingly attributes violent behavior to mental illness, potentially deepening stigma around psychological conditions and discouraging people from seeking treatment.

Psychologists stress that addressing school violence requires multifaceted approaches involving school administration, community resources, and targeted interventions — not assumptions about the mental health status of potential perpetrators. The association's statement underscores the importance of accurate information in public discussions surrounding both mental health and school safety.