FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) has introduced an innovative mental health initiative called the Mind Strength Support Program, aimed at addressing the rising demand for mental health support in the country. The launch of this program coincides with Self-Care Awareness Month in September and National Mental Health Month in October, highlighting its timely focus on mental wellbeing.
FWD Philippines Mind Strength Support Program
The Mind Strength Support Program takes a comprehensive approach to wellbeing, emphasizing mental, emotional, and financial health. Central to the program is a free online Mind Strength Assessment, which provides users with insights into their current mental health status.
The initiative also includes The One, a customizable insurance plan specifically designed for mental wellbeing. The plan offers access to the ThoughtFull Mindfulness app, providing users with tools for mental wellness.
Furthermore, financial literacy resources are incorporated into the program to help individuals manage their overall wellbeing, blending financial and mental health support.
Young Filipinos Prioritize Mental Health
Roche Vandenberghe, chief marketing and digital business officer of FWD Philippines, remarked that many young Filipinos are starting to place a higher priority on mental health. She emphasized that it is essential to provide resources that support this shift, stating:
“With more young Filipinos learning to prioritize their wellness, it is important that we recognize the often-overlooked challenges related to mental health.”
Vandenberghe stressed the need for increased awareness and accessibility to mental health resources, enabling individuals to handle personal challenges with either professional support or self-care strategies.
Mind Strength Assessment
At the core of the program is the Mind Strength Assessment, a quick online test that generates a score reflecting an individual’s mental health status. Following the assessment, users receive 30 days of free access to the ThoughtFullChat app, which connects them with mental health professionals for confidential, text-based coaching in their preferred language.
FWD Philippines Financial Literacy
Beyond mental health support, FWD Philippines also focuses on financial literacy and mindfulness tools to enhance users’ overall wellbeing. The One for mental wellbeing, the company’s latest life insurance plan, provides customizable coverage options for conditions linked to mental health, including cerebral aneurysm, chronic lung disease, and cancer.
Additionally, policyholders benefit from a one-year subscription to the ThoughtFullChat app, offering continued access to mental health coaching.
Vandenberghe reiterated the company’s commitment to addressing mental health needs while providing financial security, saying: “As the insurer of the next generation, we are committed to offering innovative services that champion the next generation of Filipinos and their mental health, while providing financial security as they build their best future and celebrate living.”
Addressing Mental Health in the Philippines
A 2023 survey conducted by FWD showed that 63% of Filipinos consider mental health a top priority, particularly given the economic challenges of recent years. The Department of Health estimates that over 3.6 million Filipinos are affected by mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, underscoring the urgency of mental health resources.
To assist the broader population, the Mind Strength Assessment is available for free online, and The One for mental wellbeing insurance plan can be purchased through the FWD Online Shop without the need for a medical exam.
FWD Philippines Customer Feedback Panel
In line with its 10th anniversary, FWD Philippines has also launched the FWD Champions panel, a new initiative designed to improve customer experience. The panel invites clients to provide direct feedback on FWD’s products and services, ensuring that the company’s offerings stay aligned with customer needs.
Judith Baliton, chief life operations officer of FWD Philippines, highlighted the importance of this initiative in refining the company’s approach to delivering value and enhancing customer service.
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