BAGUIO CITY — "Not all disabilities are visible," the Baguio City Health Services Office (CHSO) reminded the public as it called for greater understanding and acceptance of people living with psychosocial disabilities.

The appeal, originally expressed in dialect as "Mga kaarruba, hindi lahat ng disability ay nakikita," forms part of the city's campaign to dismantle misconceptions and social barriers surrounding invisible disabilities, particularly those linked to mental health conditions.

The CHSO explained that psychosocial disability arises from the challenges and barriers experienced by individuals with mental health conditions, often made worse by stigma, discrimination, and unsupportive environments. These obstacles can prevent them from participating fully in school, the workplace and community life.

Health officials said psychosocial disabilities may affect a person's ability to function in certain settings, maintain focus, complete daily tasks, cope with stress, or interact effectively with others. They can also make it difficult to process feedback and manage everyday responsibilities.

The CHSO identified several mental health conditions that may lead to psychosocial disability.

Among them is depression, which causes persistent sadness and loss of interest that can make even routine activities overwhelming. Bipolar disorder is marked by extreme mood swings ranging from depressive episodes to periods of heightened energy or irritability, affecting judgment and decision-making.

Schizophrenia alters how a person thinks, feels and behaves, often causing hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thinking that require long-term treatment and support.