MANILA: The Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA) has warned against claims linking antidepressant use to increased suicidal thoughts, saying such statements are medically unsound and perpetuate stigma.
The PPA issued the statement following reports that former Public Works Undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral tested positive for antidepressants, as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding her death, which has been classified as a suicide.
“Such claims risk misinforming the public and undermining trust in evidence-based mental health care. Depression and suicidal behavior are complex, multifactorial conditions arising from the interaction of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors,” the PPA said on Tuesday (Dec 30).
“Antidepressants are a well-established treatment option for many individuals, particularly those with moderate to severe depression, and are most effective when prescribed following careful assessment, appropriate monitoring, and as part of a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan,” it added.
“This may include psychotherapy, family and community support, lifestyle interventions, and, for some individuals, spiritual or faith-based practices that promote meaning, hope, connectedness, and resilience. Importantly, untreated or inadequately treated depression itself carries a substantial risk of suicide,” the group further explained.
The association also cautioned that publicly “singling out” antidepressants as a cause of suicide, absent verified clinical evidence, is medically unsound and irresponsible.
“The reckless use of mental health narratives to support conjecture or assign blame fuels stigma, distorts public understanding, and may deter individuals from seeking much-needed professional help,” they said.
“In line with Department of Health and World Health Organization guidelines, the PPA calls for responsible journalism and ethical public discourse on mental health. Misinformation causes harm; compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic care—including attention to spiritual well-being—saves lives,” they added.
According to police reports, Cabral was found about 30m from the riverbank along Kennon Road in Barangay Camp 4, Tuba, Benguet, on Dec 19.
Her death comes months after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr ordered investigations into several flood control and slope protection projects flagged as anomalous, prompting probes involving several top officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Cabral was among those mentioned in the investigation after fellow Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo linked her to the issue, which she denied.
Reports indicate she oversaw planning and public-private partnership projects at the DPWH and was allegedly involved in the allocation of agency funds. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
