The Cagayan de Oro City government on Monday urged families to have open communication among their members to help curb incidents of depression.

Jayme Leonen-Pagaspas, head psychologist at the Psychosocial Division of the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD), said most young people having issues with depression and mental health, need consistent communication with parents and elder family members.

“Tell them that you will always listen, and you will not judge what they are going through,” she said during Monday’s convocation of city government employees.

Pagaspas said cases of depression and mental health issues often lead to suicides, whose victims are mostly youths.

As a precaution, she said government agencies and the private sector will provide a wider reach to affected individuals.

“Our mayor (Rolando Uy) and the local government have created actions and received help (from partners) to address mental health,” Pagaspas said.

Over the weekend, there were reported attempts by several individuals to jump off bridges in Cagayan de Oro City but were halted by barangay officials who have since guarded the areas after a series of such cases.

Apart from 911, the CSWD has launched a helpline number for a free consultation on mental health concerns. (PNA)