THE Department of Health (DOH) welcomed on Friday, July 29, discussions on the proposed “anti-ghosting” bill, saying regardless of its fate in Congress, it would highlight the importance of one’s mental health.In a virtual press briefing, DOH Deputy Spokesperson Dr. Beverly Ho said they believe that the proposal of Negros Oriental Third District Representative Arnolfo Teves would benefit the government’s mental health advocacy.”We appreciate the effort of Representative Teves to highlight the importance of mental health, especially among the youth today,” said Ho.”Ghosting is a very cultural, casual term but… (can be included) in the overall programs that we have on mental health,” she added.Ho said ghosting could be a valid mental health issue based on their experience in the helpline of the National Center for Mental Health.”Issues on relationships are among the top three reasons why people or young people would actually call the hotline numbers,” said Ho.Earlier in the week, Teves filed a bill seeking to declare the act of “ghosting” as a form of emotional abuse.Teves noted how cutting someone off all forms of communication can cause mental, physical, and emotional suffering to the victim of ghosting. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)