Bonifacio Global City, Taguig – Listed natural resource development company, Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC), has rolled out free mental health training to volunteer employees to foster a more supportive work environment.
Aligned with the company’s new mental health policy, NAC Mental Health Responders undergo continuous training, starting with an 8.5-hour session covering non-clinical interventions such as psychological first aid and mental health awareness. All volunteers receive certification from Mental Health First Response (MHFR), a registered provider specializing in mental health education.
“The goal is to turn up the conversation, stamp out the stigma, and promote self-seeking behavior, a healthy working atmosphere we aspire for at NAC,” says Dr. Bimbo Almonte, NAC Assistant Vice President for Occupational Health.
This year, 92 employees signed up as mental health responders, including 67 from NAC’s operating companies across the Philippines. These responders make themselves available to listen to colleagues experiencing stress or emotional concerns. The program doesn’t require clinical experience, allowing employees from various departments to offer peer support.
“NAC takes charge in placing mental health as an integral part of the company’s health culture, where employees themselves take the responsibility of tackling mental health issues and providing support for each other,” Almonte further explains.
The program supports Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 on Good Health and Well-being and aligns with the World Health Organization’s recommendation for companies to implement structured mental health interventions in the workplace.
