Mental Health in Focus: Chronicles of Social Workers in Preventing and Dealing With Adolescents' Depression

Abstract

This study unfurled the experiences and coping strategies of social workers in dealing with and preventing adolescent depression through a qualitative phenomenological study. The participants were ten (10) social workers in Paquibato District in Davao City. They were chosen based on the following criteria: qualified social workers with relevant education and training, possess long-term experience dealing with adolescent depression, have at least five years of experience, and are willing to participate in the study. In the study, three (3) themes have emerged as experiences of social workers in dealing with adolescent depression: social stigma, lack of trained professional mental healthcare providers, and misinformation and misconceptions. Meanwhile, three (3) themes have surfaced as their preventative method: proactive and preventive measures, mental health education awareness programs, and collaborating with families, schools, and communities. Finally, there were also three (3) emerging themes for the insights: fostering a contextually sensitive approach, collaborating with other professionals, and destigmatizing adolescent depression. Mental health is fundamental to overall well-being, affecting individuals, communities, and societies. Recognizing its importance was crucial to building a healthier and more compassionate environment for everyone. The study contributes to their academic arsenal, especially in guidance and counseling. It would be interesting to unfurl the possible factors that have massive effects on their emotion and perceptions, leading to depression.